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Problems with cervical collar - Bassline - 07-05-2019

(Moved this discussion to a new thread, as the topic no longer matches the previous subject. Copying the relevant snippet.)

I'm now past my third night with the soft cervical collar. (Decided to go with OTC as suggested because of the variety of sizing options - medium, 3.5".) The first two nights I figured that it was a matter of adjusting or figuring out the proper position of the pillow. After thinking that I had it solved by moving down on the pillow, the third night I simply couldn't fall asleep while laying on the "padded lump" on the back and sides of my neck. Had to switch back to the chin strap (which has its own problems.)

jaswilliams: good suggestion on the Dr Dakota pillow. I had seen recommendations on that one, but currently all signs point to the manufacturer having gone defunct. I haven't seen any similar items available - at least none that aren't more of a one-size-fits-all travel pillow. 

Any other suggestions from folks who have had issues getting comfortable with a cervical collar, and what they did to solve the problem? I've tried loosening the collar, maybe to let it shift a bit more, or minimize the bulk behind the neck. Unfortunately, past a certain point that simply allows my chin to slip behind the front. 

Thanks again.


RE: Problems with cervical collar - mesenteria - 07-05-2019

You can get used to pretty much anything. It won't be fun, maybe even nightmarish, but you can get passed something that seems like an outright obstacle.  Persistence, perseverance, grit....you sometimes gotta dig deep.

Have you considered a different pillow?  There are CPAP pillows, but maybe a good quality ($50) down pillow might work.


RE: Problems with cervical collar - Sleeprider - 07-05-2019

We have seen specialized pillows fail pretty miserably, and the example used in the Optimizing Therapy wiki was by a member that used specialty pillow and still had terrible results. Many members are using the soft cervical collar, and while many are resistant and uncomfortable with its use at first, they seem to adapt pretty quickly, especially as positional apnea drops off dramatically.


RE: Problems with cervical collar - WhyMe - 07-05-2019

Regarding Dr Dakota collars - I ordered one through Walmart’s website and received it about a week ago, so they are still out there if you really want one.


RE: Problems with cervical collar - AndyB - 07-05-2019

Like so many things with sleep apnea, the comfort and efficacy of a cervical collar is not the same for everyone.

I have both the Dakota collar and the Caldera Releaf collar, and I much prefer the Releaf.  It is softer and much easier to put on and take off.  It took a while to get used to wearing a collar, but now it feels very natural.


RE: Problems with cervical collar - jaswilliams - 07-05-2019

You can also get 'The Eliminator' from amazon very similar to the Dr Dakota


RE: Problems with cervical collar - Big Guy - 07-05-2019

I'm a side sleeper and am using an AirFit F30 mask. I tried about 3-4 pillows before I found the one that would accommodate me sleeping on my side with the mask on. 

They're not specialty pillows either. Just regular ole pillows of varying size, firmness, and density. The one I ended up using was one that I bought from Walmart I think.


RE: Problems with cervical collar - PaulaO2 - 07-05-2019

As for pillows, I use a buckwheat pillow. I can form it to what I need and it pretty much stays that way. I've tried down, foam, memory foam, etc. I have neck issues so a pillow is important for other reasons, too.

Like someone said above, the cervical collar route is not for everyone. Personally, I wouldn't be able to use grit and determination or stick-to-it-ness for something that is optional.


RE: Problems with cervical collar - MitchS - 07-05-2019

I tried a couple of over the counter collars, as well as the Dr. Dakota collar, and couldn’t make them work. I bought a Caldera Releaf and was using it with no issues within a couple of nights. I use it to help control mouth leaks. 


RE: Problems with cervical collar - DaveL - 10-18-2019

(07-05-2019, 05:46 PM)MitchS Wrote: I tried a couple of over the counter collars, as well as the Dr. Dakota collar, and couldn’t make them work. I bought a Caldera Releaf and was using it with no issues within a couple of nights. I use it to help control mouth leaks. 

Thanks Very helpful.

I bought my Dakota wedge from ebay.  By the time I got it in my hands in Canada the cost was $63 Canadian. I still have buyer's remorse due to the difference in cost.  It was NOT available from amazon at the time. Often products available on amazon.com for a reasonable cost aren't available at all from amazon or the cost is far far higher.