If you’ve suffered a minor sports related neck injury like whiplash or a muscle pull you might not run off to the doctor’s at first. Even though it is always suggested to go straight to the hospital if there is any serious injury, minor aches and pains can be self treated with special braces and Tylenol. Muscle aches, cramps, strains, and pulls in the area of your neck can be treated with the use of a neck brace.

There are two main types of neck brace collars out there: soft foam neck braces and rigid plastic neck braces. There are also specially designed motocross neck braces, like the Leatt Adventure neck brace, for those who like to ride dirt bikes and perform aerial stunts but we won’t get into those types of neck braces in this article. When you first pick up your neck brace at the drug store it might be tempting to slap it on right away to alleviate the pain but please be aware that wearing a neck brace improperly can worsen your condition in the long run.

Here are the few basic steps you must take to put on your neck brace properly. Following these instructions will help you to treat your injury and get you back on the playing field in no time. As usual though, it is always a good idea to speak with your doctor before making any attempt at self treatment.

Soft Foam Neck Braces

A soft neck brace, or cervical neck brace, is generally made out of cushiony foam material with Velcro straps attached to it. The neck brace is designed to wrap completely around your neck, resting under your chin and on top of your shoulders, to keep movement to a minimum so your muscles are given time to heal.

To properly fasten your soft neck brace you must:

1. Wash Your Neck:
Before wrapping your skin in anything you need to make sure it is clean and dry. If you wrap your neck in a neck brace without cleaning it thoroughly with soap and water you run the risk of skin irritation and infection. It is a good idea to take a hot shower before putting on your neck brace to ensure that the muscles in your neck are relaxed and the pours in your skin are cleaned out. Dry your neck off with a towel before proceeding to the next step.

2. Wrap the Neck Brace Around Your Neck:
It is a good idea to have a friend or family member help you with this step because it might cause you pain to lift your arms up to wrap the brace around your neck. You want to wrap the soft neck brace so that it is snug on your neck without choking you. Make it as tight as you can without causing yourself any discomfort. The goal is to restrict the movement of your head as much as possible.

3. Fasten Neck Brace:
Each neck brace has a different method of fastening. Most soft neck braces will use Velcro straps to secure them but some will use clips or tape. Once you have wrapped your neck securely just fasten it down so that it will not lose its grip.

Hard Plastic Neck Braces

An orthopedic neck brace, or hard plastic neck brace, will often be prescribed to you by a physician or physical therapist but you can purchase some on your own at your neighborhood drug store. If you choose to get a rigid neck brace it is essential that you wrap it properly around your neck. You will most likely require assistance the first time you put this type of neck brace on.

1. Lie Down:
Lie down on a rigid and flat surface so that your spine straightens out as much as possible. Keep your arms at your sides and try to relax.

2. Position the Front Half of the Neck Brace:
Most orthopedic neck braces will come in two parts: the front and the back. You, or your assistant, should place the front half of the neck brace on your chest and slide it up onto your neck under your chin. The piece should rest comfortably under your chin before you move on to the next step.

3. Position the Back Half of the Neck Brace:
Now position the back half of the neck brace under your shoulders. You might want to have your assistant help you by lifting your shoulders and back off the ground. Make sure to bend at the waist and not at the neck to avoid further injury or strain.

4. Fasten the Two Halves Together:
Once you have properly positioned the two halves of your neck brace it is time to fasten them together. Most plastic neck braces will use metal clips to connect the two pieces. Clip your neck brace together where necessary and make sure it is tight but comfortable. Again, just like with the soft neck brace, you want to make sure to use the neck brace to restrict the movement of your head as much as possible.

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