Table 1

Summary of questionnaire responses

Percentage
SHORegistrarConsultant
Indications given for the use of soft collars
    Fracture3120
    Osteoarthritis191838
    Soft tissue sprain/strain625946
    None of the above353531
Instructions given to patients prescribed soft collars
    Wear all the time1168
    Day only35358
    Night only000
    When required314146
    Never prescribed231838
Length of time for soft collar use
    One day1260
    two days19418
    One week152346
    Until pain free31128
Investigation and management options routinely used for soft tissue sprains/strains of the cervical spine
    Radiograph502446
    Soft collar354723
    Advice/exercise8583100
    Physiotherapy02431
    Regular analgesia817162
    PRN analgesia312928