Miami J® Cervical Collars

November 3, 2022

miami j collar

Neck braces like the Miami J® Cervical Collar can help patients with a variety of neck conditions. Orlin & Cohen’s licensed physical therapist, Alyas Hamid, PT, DPT, OCS, explains everything you need to know about the Miami J® Cervical Collar, including what it is, how to wear one correctly and for how long.

What Is Miami J® Cervical Collar?

A Miami J® Cervical Collar is an over-the-counter neck bracing system available in a variety of sizes. The two-piece collar includes front and back pieces made of hard plastic or plexiglass, with foam padding to support your head and neck comfortably and Velcro straps to customize the fit.

The collar reduces movement in the neck and spine while supporting the weight of the head and ligaments in the neck to prevent further damage after a cervical spine or neck injury.

The difference between Miami J® Cervical Collars, Aspen Cervical Collar & other neck braces

Miami J® Cervical Collars are one of a few types of cervical orthoses, or neck braces, designed to immobilize the neck and spine following an injury. Other neck braces include the Aspen Cervical Collar, Vista Cervical Collar and the Philadelphia Collar. All four collars effectively stabilize the neck and prevent movement. The main differences between them are personal comfort, preference, and availability.

What Is Miami J® Cervical Collar Used For?

Miami J® Cervical Collars and similar neck braces can help with many different conditions. Your healthcare provider may prescribe you to wear one after an injury or surgery or to address other cervical issues.

Common reasons for using a Miami J® Cervical Collar are:

  • Post-cervical trauma (whiplash)
  • Cervical fracture
  • Cervical disc rupture
  • Severe cervical spondylosis
  • Ligament laxity from connective tissue disorders like Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome or Marfan Syndrome
  • Multilevel cervical disc replacement
  • Cervical fusion

How to Properly Use and Wear a Miami J® Cervical Collar

Proper use of a Miami J® Cervical Collar or other neck brace is critical to a patient’s rehabilitation. Improper use can slow a patient’s recovery and contribute to more severe injury. You should wear the collar at all times, including while showering, resting and sleeping, unless otherwise prescribed by your doctor. When changing your collar’s removable pads, as you would after a shower, it’s best to have the help of another person.

To ensure you’re wearing the Miami J® Cervical Collar correctly, check that:

  • The sides of the collar sit below your ears
  • Your chin is resting in the chin support
  • The Velcro straps are secured firmly and evenly
  • The back piece overlaps on top of the front piece
  • The front of the collar rests securely on your chest

You should never drive while wearing a Miami J® Cervical Collar or similar neck brace since an immobilized neck creates additional blind spots and makes driving extremely dangerous. You should also take extra precautions when walking since looking down is difficult.

How Long Do You Need to Wear a Miami J® Cervical Collar?

The length of time you’ll need to wear a Miami J® Cervical Collar will vary depending on your injury. You should wear the neck brace for as long as your doctor prescribes, and it’s important to discontinue use when your healthcare provider directs you to. Continued use of a neck brace when no longer prescribed can gradually weaken supporting muscles in and around your neck and spine, putting you at risk for additional injury.

If you experience neck pain or discomfort or struggle with neck control after removing the collar, you should speak with your orthopedist. They can evaluate your condition and prescribe physical therapy to identify deficits and create an interventional rehabilitation plan, improving strength and mobility while reducing pain.

At Orlin & Cohen, our top-ranked orthopedists include fellowship-trained spine, neck and back specialists whose experience and expertise can mean a better outcome for you. Your specialist will work closely with our in-house diagnostic team and licensed physical therapists to develop and implement treatment plans to help you feel better, faster. Request a same-day appointment.