Most patients end up in a cervical collar because of neck injuries or surgery. Sleeping can be a challenge. Although the cervical collar keeps your neck positioned in the appropriate alignment, this isn't the position most people sleep in and you may have some trouble getting comfortable. The key to sleeping comfortably is adjusting the rest of your body so that it matches the alignment of your neck.
Instructions
1. Check with your doctor to see she has special instructions about sleeping in your cervical collar.
2. Use a soft cervical pillow instead of a full cervical collar only if you have your doctor's permission to do so. The soft pillows tend to make sleep more comfortable, but they also allow movement of the neck--whereas a full collar immobilizes you completely. So you'll only be allowed to use a soft pillow if you're being weaned off the full collar and your neck can tolerate some movement.
3. Try to sleep in a reclining chair that's positioned most or all of the way back.
4. Put a thin pillow under your shoulders if you're sleeping in bed. This will probably be more comfortable than trying to sleep with a pile of pillows propping you up, as the pillow lets your neck extend into a comfortable position.
5. Roll up towels and position them around your neck, to either side of your head, or underneath your shoulders as necessary to help get yourself into a comfortable position and stay there. This works whether you're sleeping in the bed or a chair.
6. Place a pillow between your knees if you're sleeping on your side. This will help keep your entire spine aligned with your neck and reduce stress on your body. If you're sleeping on your back, try putting a pillow underneath your knees.
Tags: your neck, cervical collar, sleeping your, comfortable position, full collar