Review of cervical orthoses

Six commonly prescribed cervical orthoses are presented for a qualitative review of their structural properties and their clinical applicability. A quantitative review of each brace has previously been reported. The characteristics of 1) structure, 2) ease of donning, 3) ease of adjusting, 4) comfort, and 5) general clinical applicability are summarized for each brace. Generally, as the orthosis becomes more restrictive, it also becomes more cumbersome and more difficult to don. Ease of adjustment and comfort are compromised. The one exception was the Somi orthosis which was comfortable, easy to don and adjust, and which still provided good stability in forward flexion. The information presented in this paper in conjunction with information on the quantitative qualities of each brace and the services available at most health care facilities may be used as a guide for selecting specific cervical orthoses.