The Canadian collar: a new cervical spine orthosis.

We developed a cervical collar (the Canadian collar) in response to the requirements of occupational therapists who manage arthritis patients. This orthosis overcomes the problems of heat and inadequate support common to many soft collars. The collar is constructed from nylon and polyvinyl chloride tubing, clipped together by nylon junctions, and from chin and breastplate supports of molded nylon rod. Preliminary clinical trials have been conducted on 20 patients, 15 of whom had arthritis. An additional 60 patients with various disabilities have been fitted. The collar has been readily accepted by patients, therapists, orthotists, and physicians.