Neck collar rear piece

Abstract

A back sheet for a neck collar is described. The collar back panel features an attachment panel and one or more neck panels. In one embodiment, a pair of neck pieces are arranged to provide a symmetric architecture during a wearing process to support multiple orientations. For example, the first neck sheet may be above the second neck sheet in a first orientation, or below the second neck sheet in a second orientation. In another embodiment, a single neck sheet features a first segment and a second segment. Each of these segments supports the occipital bone and the upper trapezius muscle at different sides of the cervical vertebra.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] This application claims the benefit of and priority to U.S. Patent Application No. 18 / 117,269, filed March 3, 2023, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0002] Embodiments of the present disclosure relate to the field of orthopedic braces. More specifically, one embodiment of the present disclosure relates to a cervical brace back panel configured to attach to a cervical brace. BACKGROUND

[0003] The following description includes information that can be useful in understanding the present application. It is not an admission that any of the information provided herein is prior art or relevant to the presently claimed application, or that any publication specifically or implicitly referenced is prior art.

[0004] Cervical braces are used to substantially immobilize the cervical spine to treat neck or cervical spine disorders. These cervical braces can help treat whiplash, back surgery, and other similar disorders where support to the wearer’s (hereinafter, “patient’s”) head and neck is required. For some orthopedic braces, the cervical brace is merely a component of the brace that is configured to prevent movement of the wearer’s spine from the cervical region (neck and upper back region).

[0005] Cervical braces include a front body and a cervical brace back panel. Currently, the cervical brace back panel is a single piece component where attachment to the cervical brace is achieved through only a single, unique deployment scheme. As such, the conventional cervical brace back panel architecture is not designed to reduce errors by healthcare providers during donning and, in some cases, does not provide adequate stabilization of the patient’s neck. Conventionally, the cervical brace back panel architecture needs improvement to mitigate donning errors and to develop a back panel architecture that strikes a balance between immobilization of the cervical spine and patient comfort to ensure compliance with donning instructions. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0006] In the drawings, embodiments of the application are shown by way of example, and not limitation, in which like reference numerals refer to similar elements, and wherein:

[0007] Figure 1 is a back view of a first exemplary embodiment of a cervical brace back panel.

[0008] Figure 2A is a back view of an illustrative embodiment of an attachment tab of Figure 1

[0009] Figure 2B is a back view of an illustrative embodiment of one of the cervical tabs of Figure 1

[0010] Figure 3A is​​Figure 1 exploded rear view of the neck brace back panel of

[0011] Figure 3B is a detailed view of the interconnection between the central panel member of Figure 3A

[0012] Figure 4 is a front view of the neck brace back panel of Figure 1

[0013] Figure 5 is a rear view of a second exemplary embodiment of a neck brace back panel.

[0014] Figure 6A is a rear view of an illustrative embodiment of an attachment panel of Figure 5

[0015] Figure 6B is a front view of one illustrative embodiment of a neck panel of Figure 5

[0016] Figure 7 is an exploded rear view of the neck brace back panel of Figure 5

[0017] Figure 8 is a front view of the neck brace back panel of Figure 5 7

[0018] Figure 9 is an illustrative embodiment of the curvature of the neck brace back panel of Figure 5 7

[0019] Figure 10 is an illustrative embodiment of the donning process in which the strap attached to the first extension panel member of the attachment panel will be wrapped around the lateral side of the patient's neck to attach to the front brace body of the neck brace.

[0020] Figure 11 is an illustrative embodiment of the donning process in which the central member of the attachment panel is positioned to support the lordotic curve of the patient's cervical spine.

[0021] Figure 12 is an illustrative embodiment of the donning process in which the strap is coupled to the portion of the neck brace front body.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0022] ​​​​​​​​​Embodiments of the present disclosure generally relate to a cervical collar back piece, which is a posterior component of a cervical collar. According to a first embodiment of the present disclosure, the cervical collar back piece features one or more neck pieces coupled to an attachment piece, although the cervical collar back piece can be configured as a single unitary component. Here, for this embodiment, a pair of neck pieces are designed, where one of the neck pieces is positioned to support the occipital region of a patient's skull (e.g., the occipital bone), while the other neck piece is positioned to receive support provided by the patient's upper trapezius region (e.g., the upper trapezius region proximate the cervical spine). Depending on its positioning on the central member of the attachment piece, when worn, the neck pieces can feature either (i) a concave shape that abuts and supports the occipital region of the patient, or (ii) a convex shape that abuts and is supported by the patient's upper trapezius region.

[0023] As a result, when installed and operated as part of a cervical collar, the cervical collar back piece deploys a symmetrical architecture, where either neck piece can be used to support the occipital region of a patient. In other words, the neck pieces are positioned to have a symmetrical architecture to allow one of these neck pieces to engage with the occipital region of a patient, while the other engages with the patient's upper trapezius region.

[0024] According to this embodiment, the attachment piece features a central piece member, a first piece extension, and a second piece extension. The central piece member features a central aperture, with a peripheral member surrounding the aperture. Viewed from the posterior, the top / bottom peripheral member is configured to have a gradually concave form. In particular, the top peripheral member is configured with an inclined angle that tends to turn away from the anterior side of the cervical collar back piece (e.g., an upward slope), while the second peripheral member is configured with a downward inclined angle that turns away from the anterior side of the cervical collar back piece. These concave top / bottom peripheral members help orient the neck pieces to support the occipital region of a patient, and to be supported by the patient's upper trapezius region. Each piece extension projects laterally from the central piece member in opposite directions, and is configured to provide lateral support for a strap attached to the anterior body of the cervical collar.

[0025] By orienting the first neck piece in a mirror image configuration to the second neck piece, this embodiment of the cervical collar back piece achieves a symmetrical architecture, such that these neck pieces can be positioned at either the occipital region or the upper trapezius region of a patient. In other words, the cervical collar back piece can be worn in a first orientation (e.g., the first neck piece is positioned above the second neck piece), or a second orientation (e.g., the second neck piece is positioned above the first neck piece), where the second orientation is rotated one hundred and eighty degrees from the first orientation.

[0026] According to a second embodiment of the present disclosure, the cervical brace back piece features a neck piece configured for attachment to the attachment piece, although the cervical brace back piece can be constructed as a single unitary component. Here, for this embodiment, the attachment piece has a similar configuration as the existing attachment piece, although the neck piece is not attached to the central member of the attachment piece. Another distinction is in the architecture and function of the neck piece, which features a first segment and a second segment. When installed and operated as part of a cervical brace, the first segment is configured to support a first lateral portion of a patient's occipital region and to receive support from a first lateral portion of a patient's upper trapezius region. The second segment is configured to support a second lateral portion of a patient's occipital region and to receive support from a second lateral portion of a patient's upper trapezius region. When the straps of the cervical brace back piece are attached to the front cervical brace body, these segments are compressed inwardly to provide the support described above.

[0027] Here, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, when the cervical brace back piece is coupled to the front cervical brace body of a cervical brace, the first and second segments of the neck piece will be disposed on opposite sides of the cervical spine.

[0028] Here, the neck piece features (i) a central aperture, (ii) a first segment, and (iii) a second segment. The first segment features (i) a first curved perimeter member to abut and support a respective lateral portion of a patient's occipital region, and (ii) a second curved perimeter member to abut and be supported by a first lateral portion of a patient's upper trapezius region. The first segment also features an intermediate base structure that is concave from a first lateral edge of the central aperture to the first lateral perimeter member. The second segment has a similar architecture, including (i) a third curved perimeter member to abut and support another respective lateral portion of the occipital region, (ii) a fourth curved perimeter member to abut and be supported by a second lateral portion of the upper trapezius region, and an intermediate base structure that is concave from a second lateral edge of the central aperture to the second lateral perimeter member.

[0029] Thus, when installed and operated as part of a cervical brace, the cervical brace back piece features segments of a support-symmetrical architecture, where a first segment is laterally oriented relative to a second segment and configured in mirror image to the second segment, such that the cervical brace back piece can be worn in a first orientation (e.g., first / second segments on right / left of central axis) or a second orientation (e.g., first / second segments on left / right of central axis), where the second orientation is rotated one-hundred and eighty degrees from the first orientation. In other words, the neck piece features segments that are disposed to allow one of the segments to engage a first lateral portion of a patient's occipital region and a first lateral portion of a patient's upper trapezius region. The other of the segments is configured to engage a second lateral portion of the patient's occipital region and a second lateral portion of the patient's upper trapezius region, where the first and second lateral portions are disposed on different sides of the cervical spine.

[0030] I. Terminology In the following description certain terms are used for describing aspects of the application. For example, each of the terms "member" and "panel" can be interpreted as a physical component, wherein the physical component can be part of an orthopedic brace, such as a cervical collar. In some cases, a member (or panel) can rely on one or more fasteners (hereinafter, "fasteners") for attaching the member (or panel) to a different member (or panel) featuring complementary fasteners. For example, a first member can include "loop" type fasteners, "hook" type fasteners located on a second member can be attached to the "loop" type fasteners, or the first member can include hook type fasteners for attaching to loop type fasteners located on a second member.

[0031] The term "attach" and other verb tenses of this term (attached, attaching, etc.) can be interpreted as physically connecting two items together. This physical connection can be a direct connection of the two items - using fasteners, or an indirect connection relying on one or more intermediate members - to which both items are connected. The term "fastener" can be interpreted as any physical component for attaching different items together. Illustrative examples of different types of fasteners and fastening techniques can include, but are not limited to (limited or restricted to): snaps, buttons, clasp, clips, hook-and-loop elements (e.g., Velcro®), hook-and-loop elements (e.g., Velcro®), snaps, adhesives, rivets, screws, bolts, heat sealing (or melting), or other components that connect to their complementary fasteners.

[0032] The term "concave" can be interpreted as a curvature in a first direction (e.g., upwards like the inside of a circle), while the term "convex" can be interpreted as a curvature in a second direction (e.g., downwards like the outside of a circle). It is contemplated that these curvatures can change with the angle, wherein a surface can be convex from a rear view angle and concave from a front view angle. Thus, for the present application, the angle of the figure is illustrated.

[0033] The term "rigid," with respect to a member or a portion of a member, can be interpreted as the member permanently deforming or breaking if bent or twisted at least 90°.

[0034] Finally, the terms "or" and "and / or" as used herein are to be interpreted as inclusive or meaning any one or any combination. As an example, "A, B or C" or "A, B and / or C" means: "any of the following: A; B; C; A and B; A and C; B and C; A, B and C." An exception to this definition will occur only when two or more alternatives are inherently mutually exclusive from each other. For example, "A, B, or C", or "A, B, and / or C" does not include A B and C or A, B, and C.

[0035] Because the application can take many different forms, the present disclosure is to be considered as an exemplification of the principles of the application, and is not intended to limit the application to the particular embodiments illustrated and described.

[0036] II. Overall Architecture Reference Figure 1 FIG. 1 shows a rear view of a first embodiment of a cervical collar back panel 100. According to this embodiment, the cervical collar back panel 100 includes an attachment panel 110, a first neck panel 150, and a second neck panel 160. The attachment panel 110 includes a central panel member 120, a first extension panel member 130, and a second extension panel member 140. The central panel member 120 is configured to hold the first neck panel 150 and the second neck panel 160, which are attached together by one or more fasteners (not shown). Alternatively, the cervical collar back panel 100 including the attachment panel 110, the first neck panel 150, and the second neck panel 160 can be configured as a single unitary component.

[0037] The first extension panel member 130 includes a distal end region 132 and a proximal end region 134. The proximal end region 134 is coupled to the central panel member 120, while the distal end region 132 features a slot 136 to accommodate a strap 170 for connection with a front shell 1200 (see FIG. 2) of a cervical collar. Figure 12 The first extension panel member 130 also includes a plurality of female fasteners 138 adapted to receive male fasteners (e.g., rivets) to attach an end 172 of the strap 170 to the attachment panel 110.

[0038] The second extension panel member 140 includes a similar architecture to the first extension panel member 130, with a slot 146 located at a distal end region 142 of the second extension panel member 140. The slot 146 is configured to receive a strap 180, located on a front side of the second extension panel member 140, to be repositioned to a back side of the second extension panel member 140. A plurality of female fasteners 148 are located in a proximal end region 144 of the second extension panel member 140 and are adapted to receive male fasteners (e.g., rivets) to secure an end 182 of the strap 180. Here, the straps 170 / 180 are different straps to avoid interfering with the operability of the extension members 130 and 140.

[0039] The cervical collar back panel 100 also includes the first neck panel 150 and the second neck panel 160, which are symmetrically disposed relative to a transverse axis 165 that intersects the central panel member 120. Both the first and second neck panels 150 and 160 feature a curved structure that is complementary to the curved form of the front surface of the first peripheral member 210 and the second peripheral member 220 of the central panel member 120 (see FIG. 3). Figure 2A). As shown, for the rear view angle, the first neck piece 150 features a convex configuration and is disposed at an offset distance from the front surface of the first perimeter member 210. This offset is achieved by a recessed opening formed in the first perimeter member 210 having a hemispherical convex protrusion extending from the front surface of the first perimeter member 210 and engaging the fastener of the first neck piece 150, as shown and described below. Figure 3B

[0040] The first neck piece 150 is configured and shaped to conform to the occipital region of the patient. The first neck piece 150 is disposed at an offset distance from the front surface of the first perimeter member 210 to allow articulation and attachment at the intersection regions 190 and 192 of the central piece member 120. Similarly, the second neck piece 160 features a concave configuration, which is disposed at an offset distance from the front surface of the second perimeter member 220 and attached at the intersection regions 194 and 196. The first and second neck pieces 150 and 160 are interchangeable when the cervical collar is worn, as both neck pieces 150 and 160 can be used to support the occipital region or the upper trapezius region of the patient.

[0041] Reference is now made to Figure 2A , which shows an illustrative embodiment of the attachment piece 110 of Figure 1 . According to this embodiment, the central piece member 120 features a central aperture 200 formed by a plurality of perimeter members, including the first perimeter member 210 and the second perimeter member 220, as well as the third perimeter member 230 and the fourth perimeter member 240. Here, from the rear view angle, the first perimeter member 210 is configured to have a concave (e.g., upwardly sloped) surface from the aperture 205 to its edge 212, while the edge 212 is in the form of a convex shape between its first distal end 214 and second distal end 216. This convex shape enlarges the offset to provide sufficient spacing to allow the first neck piece 150 to articulate based on the force exerted on the first neck piece 150 until it contacts the front surface of the first perimeter member 210. The second perimeter member 220 is configured to have a concave surface from the aperture 205 to its edge 222. The edge 222 is in the form of a convex shape between its first distal end 224 and second distal end 226.

[0042] Still referring to Figure 2A , the third perimeter member 230 is configured with a concave surface from the edge 212 of the first perimeter member 210 to the edge 222 of the second perimeter member 220, where this concave surface is the collective of the concave surfaces of the first / second perimeter members 210 / 220 from the aperture 205. Similarly, the fourth perimeter member 240 is configured to have a concave surface from the edge 212 of the first perimeter member 210 to the edge 222 of the second perimeter member 220. ​

[0043] In summary, regarding the configuration of peripheral members 210, 220, 230, and 240, the first peripheral member 210 is configured with an inclination angle (e.g., an upward slope) that tends to deviate from the anterior orientation of the posterior cervical brace 100, while the second peripheral member 220 is configured with a downward tilt angle that also deviates from the anterior orientation of the posterior cervical brace 100. As a result, the first peripheral member 210 is configured to assist in the orientation of the first cervical brace 150 to support the patient's occipital region and to help establish an offset distance between the posterior surface of the first cervical brace 150 and the anterior surface of the first peripheral member 210. The second peripheral member 220 is configured to establish an offset distance between its anterior surface and the posterior surface of the second cervical brace 160 and to assist in the orientation of the second cervical brace 160 to rest against and be supported by the patient's upper trapezius muscle region.

[0044] refer to Figure 3A , showed Figure 1 An exploded view of the rear neck brace 100. The rear neck brace 100 includes an attachment piece 110, a first neck piece 150, and a second neck piece 160. As shown, the first neck piece 150 includes a plurality of fasteners 300 / 310, including a first fastener 300 and a second fastener 310. The first fastener 300 is formed as part of the neck piece 150 for alignment with a recessed opening 320 formed in an intersection region 190 of the first / third peripheral members 210 / 230 of the central piece member 120. The second fastener 310 is formed for alignment with a recessed opening 325 formed in an intersection region 192 of the first / fourth peripheral members 210 / 240 of the central piece member 120.

[0045] Here, as Figure 3B As shown, a recessed opening 320 forms a hemispherical convex protrusion 321 extending from the front surface 322 of the first peripheral member 210. The protrusion 321 is aligned and engaged with the hemispherical recess 302 of the fastener 300. Engagement is achieved when the protrusion 321 partially rests into or abuts the hemispherical recess 302.

[0046] refer to Figures 3A-3B Fasteners 305 / 315 are respectively inserted into the recessed openings 320 / 325 and attached to fasteners 300 / 310 of the neck piece 150. According to one embodiment of this disclosure, as... Figure 3BAs shown in detail, the size of the protruding rivet 305 can be designed to have a diameter that is used to (i) be inserted through the recessed opening 320, (ii) extend beyond the protrusion 321, and (iii) be inserted into the fastener 300 of the first neck piece 150. Upon insertion, the rivet 305 is fixed to the fastener 300 and cannot be removed without the application of significant force. As a result, the first neck piece 150 is coupled to the central panel member 120 of the attachment panel 110. This coupling, along with the configuration of the attachment panel 110 as shown in detail with the holes 250-252 between the raised fastener regions 260-261, provides flexibility to the first neck piece 150 to account for differences in the shape of the occipital region (e.g., occipital bone) of different patients. Figure 2B

[0047] With a similar configuration as the first neck piece 150, the second neck piece 160 includes a plurality of fasteners 340 / 350, which includes a third fastener 340 and a fourth fastener 350. The third fastener 340 is formed to align with a recessed opening 360 within the intersection region 194 of the second / third peripheral members 220 / 230 of the central panel member 120. The fourth fastener 350 is formed to align with a recessed opening 365 within the intersection region 196 of the second / fourth peripheral members 220 / 240 of the central panel member 120.

[0048] As shown in detail, the size of the protruding rivet 305 can be designed to have a diameter that is used to (i) be inserted through the recessed opening 320, (ii) extend beyond the protrusion 321, and (iii) be inserted into the fastener 300 of the first neck piece 150. Upon insertion, the rivet 305 is fixed to the fastener 300 and cannot be removed without the application of significant force. As a result, the first neck piece 150 is coupled to the central panel member 120 of the attachment panel 110. This coupling, along with the configuration of the attachment panel 110 as shown in detail with the holes 250-252 between the raised fastener regions 260-261, provides flexibility to the first neck piece 150 to account for differences in the shape of the occipital region (e.g., occipital bone) of different patients. Figure 3A As shown in detail, the size of the protruding rivet 305 can be designed to have a diameter that is used to (i) be inserted through the recessed opening 320, (ii) extend beyond the protrusion 321, and (iii) be inserted into the fastener 300 of the first neck piece 150. Upon insertion, the rivet 305 is fixed to the fastener 300 and cannot be removed without the application of significant force. As a result, the first neck piece 150 is coupled to the central panel member 120 of the attachment panel 110. This coupling, along with the configuration of the attachment panel 110 as shown in detail with the holes 250-252 between the raised fastener regions 260-261, provides flexibility to the first neck piece 150 to account for differences in the shape of the occipital region (e.g., occipital bone) of different patients.

[0049] Figure 3A As shown in detail, the size of the protruding rivet 305 can be designed to have a diameter that is used to (i) be inserted through the recessed opening 320, (ii) extend beyond the protrusion 321, and (iii) be inserted into the fastener 300 of the first neck piece 150. Upon insertion, the rivet 305 is fixed to the fastener 300 and cannot be removed without the application of significant force. As a result, the first neck piece 150 is coupled to the central panel member 120 of the attachment panel 110. This coupling, along with the configuration of the attachment panel 110 as shown in detail with the holes 250-252 between the raised fastener regions 260-261, provides flexibility to the first neck piece 150 to account for differences in the shape of the occipital region (e.g., occipital bone) of different patients.

[0050] ​​Here, according to one embodiment of this disclosure, when attached to the central piece 120, the second neck piece 160 is oriented in a mirror manner to the orientation of the first neck piece 150. As a result, one of the first / second neck pieces 150 / 160 can be positioned to provide support for the patient's occipital region, while the other can be positioned to receive support from the patient's upper trapezius muscle region. This symmetrical architecture reduces errors—either during the time the healthcare provider or patient wears the neck brace.

[0051] Now for reference Figure 4 , showed Figure 1 Front view of the rear neck brace 100 of 3. The rear neck brace 100 is characterized by a first neck piece 150 and a second neck piece 160, both of which are coupled to the central piece member 120. The attachment piece 110 is characterized by holes 205, 400 and 405, when... Figure 12 When the adjustable straps 170 and 180 are connected to their distal ends to the front neck brace, the holes provide greater flexibility and lateral movement for the extension members 130 and 140. According to this embodiment of the present disclosure, the end 172 of the first strap 170 is coupled to the first extension member 130 at a fastener 138 and inserted through the strap aperture 136. As a result, the first strap 170 extends from the front surface 410 of the attachment piece 110 to the rear surface 420 of the attachment piece 110. Similarly, the end 182 of the second strap 180 is coupled to the second extension member 140 at a fastener and inserted through the strap aperture 146, such that the second strap 180 also extends from the front surface 410 of the attachment piece 110 to the rear surface 420 of the attachment piece 110.

[0052] refer to Figure 5FIG. 18 shows a rear view of a second exemplary embodiment of a neck brace back panel 500. According to this embodiment, the neck brace back panel 500 includes an attachment panel 510 and a neck panel 550. As shown, the attachment panel 510 includes a central panel member 520, a first extension panel member 530, and a second extension panel member 540. The central panel member 520 is disposed between the first and second extension panel members 530 and 540, where the neck panel 550 can be coupled to the attachment panel 510 by fasteners (e.g., rivets) inserted into recessed fastener 538 and 548 located in the first and second extension panel members 530 and 540, respectively. Although the central panel member 520, the first extension panel member 530, and the second extension panel member 540 are shown as single, unitary (molded) components, it is contemplated that these members 520, 530, and 540 can be separate components attached by a hinge co-located at the proximal ends of the central panel member 520 and the first and second extension panel members 530 and 540. Also, although the attachment panel 510 and the neck panel 550 are shown as separate components, as another embodiment, the attachment panel 510 and the neck panel 550 can be configured as a single, unitary component.

[0053] The central panel member 520 features an insert 525 for attachment to a spinal stabilization rod, such as a scapular coupler of a cervical thoracolumbosacral orthosis (CTLSO), described in U.S. Patent Application No. 18 / 162,367, filed January 31, 2023, entitled “Orthotic Braces with Telescoping Lateral Panels and Interchangeable Scapular Couplers,” the contents of which are incorporated by reference herein. The insert 525 is disposed on a lateral perimeter member of the central panel member 520.

[0054] As further shown, the first extension panel member 530 includes a proximal region 534 and a distal region 532. The proximal region 534 is coupled to the central panel member 520, while the distal region 532 extends from the central panel member 520 and features a slot 536 to receive a strap 580 (repositioned from the front side to the back side of the attachment panel 510) for subsequent coupling to the front neck brace body 1200 (see FIG. 18). Figure 5 As further shown, the first extension panel member 530 includes a proximal region 534 and a distal region 532. The proximal region 534 is coupled to the central panel member 520, while the distal region 532 extends from the central panel member 520 and features a slot 536 to receive a strap 580 (repositioned from the front side to the back side of the attachment panel 510) for subsequent coupling to the front neck brace body 1200 (see FIG. 18). Figure 12 Fasteners (e.g., rivets) are inserted into and attached to the recessed fasteners 538 and 548, where this combination of fasteners is used to attach the neck panel 550 as well as the distal end of the strap 580. The second extension panel member 540 features a similar architecture as the first extension panel member 530, where a slot 546 located in a distal region 542 of the second extension panel member 540 accommodates a strap 585, while a recessed fastener 548 is located in a proximal region 544 of the second extension panel member 540. Here, the straps 580 / 585 are distinct straps, although it is contemplated that the straps 580 / 585 can be associated with a single strap instead of separate straps.

[0055] Additionally, the first and second extension panel members 530 and 540 also include passages 531 and 541, respectively. The first passage 531 allows the first extension panel member 530 to bend (flex) forward or backward, while the spinal stabilization rod attached via the insert 525 will remain aligned. The second passage 541 allows the second extension panel member 540 to bend forward or backward, with the spinal stabilization rod attached via the insert 525 will remain aligned. Thus, the first and second passages 531 and 541 substantially mitigate or eliminate deviation from the central axis 575 due to bending of the first and second extension panel members 530 and 540.

[0056] The neck panel 550 includes a first segment 560 and a second segment 570. The first segment 560 is laterally disposed from the central axis 575, which is substantially aligned with the cervical spine of the patient when the cervical brace back panel 500 is worn. The second segment 570 is laterally disposed from the central axis 575 and on an opposite side of the central axis 575 from the first segment 560.

[0057] Based on this architecture, the segments 560 and 570 of the cervical brace back panel 500 provide a symmetrical architecture as a feature when the cervical brace back panel 500 is installed and operates as part of a cervical brace. In other words, the neck panel 550 features segments 560 / 570 that are disposed to allow one of these segments 560 or 570 to engage with a first lateral portion of the patient's occipital region and a first lateral portion of the patient's upper trapezius region. The other of these segments 570 or 560 is configured to engage with a second lateral portion of the patient's occipital region and a second lateral portion of the patient's upper trapezius region, where the first and second lateral portions are disposed on different sides of the cervical spine.

[0058] Referring now to Figure 6A , a cervical brace back panel 500 is shown Figure 5of the attachment tab 510. According to this embodiment, the central tab member 520 features a central aperture 600 formed by a plurality of peripheral members 605 configured to have a profile that takes into account the lordotic curvature of the cervical spine. For this embodiment, the plurality of peripheral members 605 includes a first peripheral member 610, a second peripheral member 620, a third peripheral member 630, and a fourth peripheral member 640. Here, from a rear perspective, the first peripheral member 520 is configured to have a concave (e.g., upwardly sloped) surface from the aperture 600 to an edge 612 of the first peripheral member 610, while the edge 612 features a convex surface between a first distal end 614 and a second distal end 616 thereof. The convex surface of the edge 612 places the central tab member 520 away from the skin of the user for greater comfort when worn. The second peripheral member 620 is configured with a concave surface from the aperture 600 to an edge 622 thereof. The edge 622 features a convex surface between a first distal end 624 and a second distal end 626 thereof.

[0059] Still referring to Figure 6A , the third peripheral member 630 is configured to have a concave surface from the edge 612 of the first peripheral member 610 to the edge 622 of the second peripheral member 620. This concave surface is the collection of the concave surfaces of the first / second peripheral members 610 / 620 starting from the aperture 600. Similarly, the fourth peripheral member 640 is configured to have a concave surface from the edge 612 of the first peripheral member 610 to the edge 622 of the second peripheral member 620.

[0060] In summary, with respect to the configuration of the peripheral members 605, the first peripheral member 610 is configured with a slope angle (e.g., upward slope) that tends to turn away from the anterior side of the cervical brace back panel 500, while the second peripheral member 620 is configured with a downward angle that turns away from the anterior side of the cervical brace back panel 500. As a result, the first and second peripheral members 610 / 620 are disposed to align with the lordotic curvature of the cervical spine, while the first and second segments 560 / 570 of the cervical tab 550 are disposed to align with the occipital region and upper trapezius region of the patient.

[0061] Referring to Figure 6B , there is shown Figure 5An illustrative embodiment of the neck piece 550. According to this embodiment, the neck piece 550 includes a central lateral region 650 and a longitudinal region 670. Here, the central lateral region 650 is constructed with a concave structure extending from the aperture 690 of the neck piece 550 to the edge of the lateral peripheral region 655 of the first segment 560 and the edge of the lateral peripheral region 660 of the second segment 570. In addition, the longitudinal region 670 is constructed with a double convex structure extending from the aperture 690 to the first longitudinal peripheral member 675 and the second longitudinal peripheral member 680. Due to the interaction of the composite shape, opening, and reinforcing members shown herein, the separate protrusions at the edges (i.e., the first and second longitudinal peripheral members 675 and 680) create a unique rigidity to maintain a three-dimensional cup shape when wrapped around the neck.

[0062] According to one embodiment of this disclosure, the first longitudinal peripheral member 675 includes: a first peripheral member 676 as part of a first segment 560, and a second peripheral member 678 as part of a second segment 570. The first longitudinal peripheral member 675 also includes a recessed peripheral member 679 disposed between the first peripheral member 676 and the second peripheral member 678. Similarly, as Figures 6B-Figure 7 As shown, the second longitudinal peripheral member 680 includes a first peripheral member 682 as part of the first segment 560 and a second peripheral member 684 as part of the second segment 570. The second longitudinal peripheral member 680 also includes a recessed peripheral member 685 disposed between the first peripheral member 682 and the second peripheral member 684.

[0063] refer to Figure 7 , showed Figure 5 An exploded view of the rear neck brace 500. The rear neck brace 500 includes an attachment piece 510 and a neck piece 550. According to this embodiment of the present disclosure, the attachment piece 510 includes a recessed fastener 538 disposed in a proximal region 534 of a first extension piece member 530, while a recessed fastener 548 is disposed in a proximal region 544 of a second extension piece member 540. As shown, a first aperture 700 of a first segment 560 of the neck piece 550, which is formed as part of a lateral peripheral region 655, is aligned with the first recessed fastener 710 of the recessed fastener 538 to receive a fastener 720 (e.g., a protruding fastener, such as a rivet, screw, bolt, etc.). The fastener 720 is partially inserted through the first aperture 700 and secured by the first recessed fastener 710. Similarly, a second aperture 702 of the first segment 560 is also formed as part of the lateral peripheral region 655. The second aperture 702 is aligned with the second recessed fastener 712 of the recessed fastener 538 to receive the (convex) fastener 722. The fastener 722 is partially inserted through the second aperture 702 and secured by the second recessed fastener 712.

[0064] like Figure 7Further shown, the third slot 704 of the second section 570 of the neck piece 550 is formed as part of the lateral perimeter region 660 and is aligned with a third female fastener 714 of the female fastener 548 to receive a fastener 724 (e.g., a male fastener such as a rivet). The fastener 724 is partially inserted through the third slot 704 and is secured by the third female fastener 714. A fourth slot 706 of the second section 570 is also formed as part of the lateral perimeter region 660. The fourth slot 706 is aligned with a fourth female fastener 716 to receive a fastener 726. The fastener 726 is partially inserted through the fourth slot 706 and is secured by the fourth female fastener 716.

[0065] Here, the slots 700, 702, 704, and 706 are configured to pass the first portions of the fasteners 720, 722, 724, and 726, and to block the second portions of these fasteners from passing through. This arrangement allows the neck piece 550 to move slightly laterally with respect to the attachment piece 510 in order to accommodate or articulate, which can be required due to physical differences between patients and inward compression of the sections 560 / 570 caused by forwardly directed movement of the extension piece members 530 / 540, respectively.

[0066] As Figure 7 Further shown, reinforcing members (e.g., structures) 730, 735, 740, and 745 are disposed between the central lateral region 650 of the neck piece 550 and the first and second longitudinal perimeter regions 675 and 680. As shown, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the first reinforcing member 730 includes a first strut member 732 and a second strut member 733 that diverge to form a V-shaped structure. The first reinforcing structure 730 is attached on the lateral perimeter region 655 of the first section 560 and the first perimeter member 676 of the first longitudinal perimeter member 675. The first reinforcing structure 730 is designed to be rigid to provide stability against applied forces (e.g., weight of the head supported in the pillow region, gravity when applied against the upper trapezius region of the patient, etc.) while providing some flexibility for comfort and wearability.

[0067] Similarly in construction, the second reinforcing structure 735 is attached to the lateral perimeter region 660 of the second section 560 and the second perimeter member 678 of the first longitudinal perimeter member 675. The third reinforcing structure 740 is attached to the lateral perimeter region 655 of the first section 560 and the first perimeter member 682 of the second longitudinal perimeter member 680, while the fourth reinforcing structure 745 is attached to the lateral perimeter region 660 of the second section 570 and the second perimeter member 684 of the second longitudinal perimeter member 680.

[0068] During attachment, the hole 600 of the attachment piece 510 aligns with the lateral peripheral region (e.g., hole) 660 of the neck brace 550. When the strap 580 is attached to the anterior neck brace, the first segment 560 is compressed inward. In this embodiment, the first peripheral member 676 of the first longitudinal peripheral member 675 contacts and supports the patient's occipital region. Additionally, the first peripheral member 682 of the second longitudinal peripheral member 680 contacts and receives support from the patient's upper trapezius muscle region. Similarly, when the strap 585 is attached to the anterior neck brace, the second segment 570 is compressed inward toward the first segment 560. In this embodiment, the second peripheral member 678 of the first longitudinal peripheral member 675 contacts and supports the patient's occipital region. Additionally, the second peripheral member 684 of the second longitudinal peripheral member 680 contacts and receives support from the patient's upper trapezius muscle region.

[0069] Reference Figure 8 , showed Figure 5 and 7 The image shows a front view of an exemplary embodiment of the neck support rear piece 500. Here, the neck piece 550 is coupled to an attachment piece 510 by fasteners (not shown) inserted through orifices 700, 702, 704, and 706 to couple to recessed fasteners (e.g., connectors) 710, 712, 714, and 716, respectively. Adhesive members may be disposed along the inner surface 800 of the neck piece 550. For example, a first set (e.g., one or more) of adhesive members 810, such as Velcro® pads, may be disposed abutting (or attached to) the inner surface 820 of a first longitudinal peripheral member 675. Additionally or alternatively, a second set of adhesive members 830 may be disposed abutting (or attached to) the inner surface 840 of a second longitudinal peripheral member 680. These adhesive components 810 and 830 are used to secure a pad (not shown) placed on the neck piece 550 and adjusted based on the lateral movement of segments 560 and 570 caused by securing straps 580 and 585 to the front neck support. Although not shown, the pad is characterized by a slit through which the straps penetrate, allowing the pad to be adjusted without unfeeding the straps from the extension piece components.

[0070] refer to Figure 9 , showed Figure 5 and Figures 7-8an illustrative embodiment of the curvature of the cervical collar back piece 500. From a front perspective, the cervical collar back piece 500 is configured with a concave curvature. When the cervical collar back piece 500 is worn, the front surface 900 of the neck piece 550 is in contact with the patient. The straps 580 and 585 are attached to the front side 910 of the attachment piece 510. The distal end of the strap 580 is inserted through the slot 536 to reposition on the back side 920 of the attachment piece 510. Similarly, the distal end of the strap 585 is inserted through the slot 546 to reposition on the back side 920 of the attachment piece 510.

[0071] Reference is now made to the following illustrative examples, which together with the above description, illustrate the application in its application. Figures 10-12 An illustrative embodiment of the donning process of the cervical collar back piece 500 is shown. The cervical collar back piece 500 is positioned on the back of the neck - between the patient's occipital region and the upper trapezius region - as shown in Figure 10 The strap 585 attached to the second extension piece member 540 of the attachment piece 510 will be wrapped around the patient's neck lateral side in order to attach to the front shell 1200 of the cervical collar, as shown in Figure 10 and 12 The distal end 1210 of the strap 585 includes a fastener 1220 for attaching to a complementary fastener 1230 located on the front shell 1200. As shown, the fasteners 1220 / 1230 can be hook and loop fasteners.

[0072] Additionally, the strap 580 attached to the first extension piece member 530 of the attachment piece 510 will be wrapped around the other lateral side of the patient's neck in order to attach to the front shell 1200 of the cervical collar, as shown in Figure 11 and 12 The distal end of the strap 580 includes a fastener (not shown) for attaching to a complementary fastener also located on the front shell 1200. This allows the cervical collar back piece 500 to fit snugly and fully support between the patient's occipital region and the upper trapezius region.

[0073] In the foregoing description, the application has been described with reference to specific exemplary embodiments thereof. It will, however, be evident that various modifications and changes can be made thereto without departing from the broader spirit and scope of the application as set forth in the appended claims. CLAIM (modified pursuant to Article 19 of the Treaty) 1. A cervical collar back piece comprising: an attachment piece comprising a central piece member, a first extension piece member, and a second extension piece member; and one or more neck pieces arranged to provide a symmetrical architecture during the donning process, the one or more neck pieces comprising (i) a first neck piece and a second neck piece, the first neck piece and the second neck piece oriented on opposing peripheral members of the central piece member, wherein the central panel member includes an aperture surrounded by a plurality of peripheral members, and wherein the first neck piece is disposed a first offset distance from a front surface of a first peripheral member of the plurality of peripheral members to allow articulation of the first neck piece, and the second neck piece is disposed a second offset distance from a front surface of a second peripheral member of the plurality of peripheral members, the second peripheral member oriented on an opposite side of the aperture from the first peripheral member to allow articulation of the second neck piece. 2. The cervical collar back piece of claim 1, wherein the symmetrical architecture of the one or more neck pieces includes the first neck piece and the second neck piece oriented in a mirrored configuration such that the cervical collar back piece can be worn in a first orientation or a second orientation, wherein the second orientation is rotated one hundred and eighty degrees from the first orientation. 3. The cervical collar back piece of claim 2, wherein the symmetrical architecture of the one or more neck pieces includes the first segment oriented laterally relative to the second segment and in a mirrored configuration with the second segment such that the cervical collar back piece can be worn in a first orientation or a second orientation, wherein the second orientation is rotated one hundred and eighty degrees from the first orientation. 4. The cervical collar back piece of claim 1, wherein the first extension panel member includes a first female fastener and a first slot at a distal region of the first extension panel member, and the second extension panel member includes a second female fastener and a second slot at a distal region of the second extension panel member. 5. The cervical collar back piece of claim 4, further comprising: a first strap attached to the first female fastener and residing along an anterior side of the first extension panel member, the first strap configured to pass through the first slot to extend along a posterior side of the first extension panel member; and a second strap attached to the second female fastener and residing along an anterior side of the second extension panel member, the second strap configured to pass through the second slot to extend along a posterior side of the second extension panel member, wherein the first segment is coupled to the anterior side of the first extension panel member with the first female fastener, and the second segment is coupled to the anterior side of the second extension panel member with the second female fastener. 6. The cervical collar back piece of claim 1, wherein the first segment is attached to the first extension panel member to allow articulation inwardly in response to compression induced by the first extension panel member; and the second segment is attached to the second extension panel member to allow articulation inwardly in response to compression induced by the second extension panel member. 7. The cervical orthosis back piece of claim 1, wherein the first extension piece member includes a channel disposed adjacent a side perimeter member of the central piece member, the channel configured to mitigate lateral movement of the central piece member in response to angular movement of the first extension piece member. 8. (deleted). 9. The cervical orthosis back piece of claim 1, wherein the first cervical piece and the second cervical piece are interchangeable when coupled to a cervical orthosis front body and collectively worn as a cervical orthosis, as both the first cervical piece and the second cervical piece are configured to support a patient's occipital region or upper trapezius region. 10. The cervical orthosis back piece of claim 1, wearable in either of a first orientation or a second orientation, wherein in the first orientation, the first cervical piece is positioned above the second cervical piece, wherein the second orientation is rotated one hundred and eighty degrees from the first orientation, in the second orientation, the second cervical piece is positioned above the first cervical piece. 11. The cervical orthosis back piece of claim 1, wherein the central piece member includes a hole surrounded by a plurality of perimeter members, the plurality of perimeter members including a first perimeter member and a second perimeter member, wherein the first perimeter member is configured with an inclination angle that is inclined to turn away from a front side of the cervical orthosis back piece to allow articulation of the first cervical piece, wherein the second perimeter member is disposed on an opposite side of the hole from the first perimeter member, configured with a decline angle that is inclined to turn away from the front side of the cervical orthosis back piece to allow articulation of the second cervical piece. 12. A cervical orthosis back piece, comprising: an attachment piece including a central piece member, a first extension piece member, and a second extension piece member; and a cervical piece including a first segment and a second segment, the first segment and the second segment symmetrically oriented in a lateral and mirror configuration such that the cervical orthosis back piece is wearable in either of a first orientation or a second orientation, wherein in the first orientation, the first segment of the cervical piece is configured to be disposed against a patient's occipital region, wherein the second orientation is rotated one hundred and eighty degrees from the first orientation, in the second orientation, the second segment of the cervical piece is configured to be disposed against the patient's occipital region. 13. The cervical orthosis back piece of claim 12, wherein the central piece member includes a hole surrounded by a plurality of perimeter members, the plurality of perimeter members including a first perimeter member and a second perimeter member, wherein the first perimeter member is configured with an inclination angle that is inclined to turn away from a front side of the cervical orthosis back piece, wherein the second perimeter member is disposed on an opposite side of the hole from the first perimeter member, configured with a decline angle that is inclined to turn away from the front side of the cervical orthosis back piece. 14. The cervical orthosis back panel of claim 11, wherein the first extension panel member includes a first female fastener and a first slot at a distal end region of the first extension panel member, and the second extension panel member includes a second female fastener and a second slot at a distal end region of the second extension panel member. 15. The cervical orthosis back panel of claim 14, further comprising: a first strap attached to the first female fastener and residing along an anterior side of the first extension panel member, the first strap configured to pass through the first slot to extend along a posterior side of the first extension panel member; and a second strap attached to the second female fastener and residing along an anterior side of the second extension panel member, the second strap configured to pass through the second slot to extend along a posterior side of the second extension panel member, wherein the first segment is coupled to the anterior side of the first extension panel member with the first female fastener, and the second segment is coupled to the anterior side of the second extension panel member with the second female fastener. 16. The cervical orthosis back panel of claim 12, wherein the first segment is attached to the first extension panel member to allow articulation inwardly in response to compression induced by the first extension panel member, and the second segment is attached to the second extension panel member to allow articulation inwardly in response to compression induced by the second extension panel member. 17. The cervical orthosis back panel of claim 12, wherein the first extension panel member includes a channel disposed adjacent to a side perimeter member of the central panel member, the channel configured to mitigate lateral movement of the central panel member in response to angular movement of the first extension panel member. 18. The cervical orthosis back panel of claim 12, wherein the first segment and the second segment are interchangeable when coupled to a cervical orthosis shell and collectively worn as a cervical orthosis, as both the first segment and the second segment are configured to further support a superior trapezius region of the patient. 19. The cervical orthosis back panel of claim 12, wherein the cervical panel is configured to be oriented in one of a first orientation and a second orientation, the first orientation including the first segment laterally offset from a central axis corresponding to an intended position of a cervical spine of a patient in a first lateral direction, and the second segment laterally offset from the central axis in a second lateral direction opposite the first lateral direction, and the second orientation including the second segment laterally offset from the central axis in the first lateral direction, and the first segment laterally offset from the central axis in the second lateral direction. 20. The cervical collar back piece of claim 13, wherein the first segment of the neck piece is configured to move laterally inward during adjustment of the first extension piece in the forward direction, the second segment of the neck piece is configured to move laterally inward during adjustment of the second extension piece in the forward direction. 21. A cervical collar comprising: a front shell; and a cervical collar back piece coupled to the front shell, the cervical collar back piece comprising an attachment piece comprising a central piece member, a first extension piece member, and a second extension piece member, and a neck piece comprising a first segment and a second segment, the first segment and the second segment symmetrically oriented in a lateral and mirrored configuration such that the cervical collar back piece can be worn in a first orientation or a second orientation, wherein the second orientation is rotated one hundred and eighty degrees from the first orientation, wherein the first segment of the neck piece is configured to move laterally inward during adjustment of the first extension piece in the forward direction, the second segment of the neck piece is configured to move laterally inward during adjustment of the second extension piece in the forward direction.

Claims

1. A cervical collar back panel comprising: an attachment panel comprising a central panel member, a first extension panel member, and a second extension panel member; and one or more neck panels arranged to provide a symmetrical architecture during donning, the one or more neck panels comprising: (i) a first neck panel and a second neck panel oriented on opposing peripheral members of the central panel member, or (ii) a first segment of a neck panel and a second segment of a neck panel, wherein the first segment of the neck panel is configured to move laterally inward during adjustment of the first extension panel in a forward direction, and the second segment of the neck panel is configured to move laterally inward during adjustment of the second extension panel in a forward direction.

2. The neck brace back panel of claim 1, wherein, the symmetrical architecture of the one or more neck panels comprises the first neck panel and the second neck panel oriented in a mirror configuration such that the cervical collar back panel can be donned in a first orientation or a second orientation, wherein the second orientation is rotated one hundred and eighty degrees from the first orientation.

3. The neck brace back panel of claim 2, wherein, the symmetrical architecture of the one or more neck panels comprises the first segment oriented laterally relative to the second segment and in a mirror configuration with the second segment such that the cervical collar back panel can be donned in a first orientation or a second orientation, wherein the second orientation is rotated one hundred and eighty degrees from the first orientation.

4. The neck brace back panel of claim 1, wherein, the first extension panel member comprises a first female fastener and a first slot at a distal region of the first extension panel member, and the second extension panel member comprises a second female fastener and a second slot at a distal region of the second extension panel member.

5. The cervical collar back panel of claim 4, further comprising: a first strap attached to the first female fastener and residing along an anterior side of the first extension panel member, the first strap configured to pass through the first slot to extend along a posterior side of the first extension panel member; and a second strap attached to the second female fastener and residing along an anterior side of the second extension panel member, the second strap configured to pass through the second slot to extend along a posterior side of the second extension panel member, wherein the first segment is coupled to the anterior side of the first extension panel member with the first female fastener, and the second segment is coupled to the anterior side of the second extension panel member with the second female fastener.

6. The neck brace back panel of claim 1, wherein, the first segment is attached to the first extension panel member to allow articulation inward in response to compression induced by the first extension panel member; and the second segment is attached to the second extension panel member to allow articulation inward in response to compression induced by the second extension panel member.

7. The neck brace back panel of claim 1, wherein, the first extension panel member comprises a channel disposed adjacent to a lateral peripheral member of the central panel member, the channel configured to mitigate lateral movement of the central panel member, wherein the lateral movement is in response to angular movement of the first extension panel member.

8. The neck brace back panel of claim 1, wherein, The central panel member includes an aperture surrounded by a plurality of peripheral members, the first neck panel attached to an anterior surface of a first peripheral member of the plurality of peripheral members at a first offset distance allowing articulation, and the second neck panel attached to an anterior surface of a second peripheral member of the plurality of peripheral members on an opposite side of the aperture from the first peripheral member at a second offset distance allowing articulation.

9. The neck brace back panel of claim 8, wherein, The first neck panel and the second neck panel are interchangeable when coupled to the neck brace anterior body and collectively worn as a neck brace because both the first neck panel and the second neck panel are configured to support a patient’s occipital region or upper trapezius region.

10. The neck brace back panel of claim 1, wearable in either of a first orientation and a second orientation, wherein, In the first orientation, the first neck panel is positioned superior to the second neck panel, wherein the second orientation is rotated one hundred eighty degrees from the first orientation, in which the second neck panel is positioned superior to the first neck panel.

11. The neck brace back panel of claim 1, wherein, The central panel member includes an aperture surrounded by a plurality of peripheral members, the plurality of peripheral members including a first peripheral member and a second peripheral member, wherein the first peripheral member is configured with an angle of inclination that tends to turn away from an anterior side of the neck brace posterior panel, wherein the second peripheral member is disposed on an opposite side of the aperture from the first peripheral member, configured with a downward angle of inclination that turns away from the anterior side of the neck brace posterior panel.

12. A neck brace posterior panel, comprising: a panel member, a first extension panel member, and a second extension panel member; and a neck panel including a first segment and a second segment, the first segment and the second segment symmetrically oriented in a lateral and mirrored configuration such that the neck brace posterior panel is wearable in a first orientation or a second orientation, wherein the second orientation is rotated one hundred eighty degrees from the first orientation.

13. The neck brace posterior panel of claim 12, wherein the first segment of the neck panel is configured to move laterally inward during anterior direction adjustment of the first extension panel, and the second segment of the neck panel is configured to move laterally inward during anterior direction adjustment of the second extension panel.

14. The neck brace back panel of claim 11, wherein, The first extension panel member includes a first female fastener and a first slot aperture at a distal end region of the first extension panel member, and the second extension panel member includes a second female fastener and a second slot aperture at a distal end region of the second extension panel member.

15. The neck brace posterior panel of claim 14, further comprising: a first strap attached to the first female fastener and residing along an anterior side of the first extension panel member, the first strap configured to pass through the first slot aperture to extend along a posterior side of the first extension panel member; and a second strap attached to the second female fastener and residing along an anterior side of the second extension panel member, the second strap configured to pass through the second slot aperture to extend along a posterior side of the second extension panel member, wherein the first segment is coupled to the anterior side of the first extension panel member with the first female fastener, and the second segment is coupled to the anterior side of the second extension panel member with the second female fastener.

16. The neck brace back panel of claim 12, wherein, The first segment is attached to the first extension panel member to allow inward articulation in response to compression induced by the first extension panel member, and the second segment is attached to the second extension panel member to allow inward articulation in response to compression induced by the second extension panel member.

17. The neck brace back panel of claim 12, wherein, The first extension panel member includes a channel disposed adjacent to a side perimeter member of the central panel member, the channel configured to mitigate lateral movement of the central panel member in response to angular movement of the first extension panel member.

18. The neck brace back panel of claim 12, wherein, The first segment and the second segment are interchangeable when coupled to the cervical collar precursor and collectively worn as a cervical collar, as both the first segment and the second segment are configured to support different occipital regions and upper trapezius regions of a patient.

19. The neck brace back panel of claim 12, wherein, The cervical panel is configured to be oriented in one of a first orientation and a second orientation, the first orientation including the first segment laterally offset from a central axis corresponding to an expected position of a cervical spine of a patient in a first lateral direction, and the second segment laterally offset from the central axis in a second lateral direction opposite the first lateral direction, and the second orientation including the second segment laterally offset from the central axis in the first lateral direction, and the first segment laterally offset from the central axis in the second lateral direction.

20. The neck brace back panel of claim 12, wherein, The central panel member includes an aperture surrounded by a plurality of perimeter members, the plurality of perimeter members including a first perimeter member and a second perimeter member, wherein the first perimeter member is configured with an angle of inclination directed away from an anterior side of the cervical collar back panel, and wherein the second perimeter member is disposed on an opposite side of the aperture from the first perimeter member and is configured with a downward angle of inclination directed away from the anterior side of the cervical collar back panel.

21. A cervical collar comprising: a front collar body; and a cervical collar back panel coupled to the front collar body, the cervical collar back panel including an attachment panel including a central panel member, a first extension panel member, and a second extension panel member, and a cervical panel including a first segment and a second segment, the first segment and the second segment symmetrically oriented in a lateral and mirrored configuration such that the cervical collar back panel is wearable in a first orientation or a second orientation, wherein the second orientation is rotated one hundred and eighty degrees from the first orientation.

Images