A head support product is a medical device that is designed to help people who cannot fully control or support their head due to a disability, injury or weakness. By bracing the neck areas around the head, particularly the base of the head, the jaw line and the occipital bone, head supports provide mid-line positioning to improve the user’s breathing, swallowing, feeding and eye-contact with others.
What is a Head Support?
A head support is designed to brace the head by using support areas around the base of the head, such as the occipital bone and jaw line. Some models have a high back for an increase in support under the occipital bone to prevent hyperextension of the neck. Other models incorporate a side opening so the support encircles the neck to cradle the entire head for complete stability. An anterior head support lifts the chin along with supporting the sides of the head. Some models are designed for lateral support to help with side to side movement of the head.
A head support enables the head and neck to maintain position in the mid-line of the body. Proper head placement can result in improved swallowing, breathing, feeding, and eye contact. During classroom activities, it aids in social interaction and awareness. Most supports are made with a strong and pliable material with reinforcement around the outside, and a quick release buckle for easy on and off procedures. Some head supports are available in different sizes for a proper fit, and in various colors to suit individual preferences.
A head support evaluation and sizing kit is for therapy professionals to use in home offices, businesses, in-service client facilities, or other places of practice. This kit ensures that every patient will receive the appropriate fit for their specific needs. The kit may include many head support sizes and models, plus reducers for those who fit between whole sizes.
Rehabmart is pleased to carry superior quality head supports from esteemed vendors, which include Danmar, Fabrication Enterprises, and Skil-Care.
Hulet Smith, OT
Rehabmart Co-Founder & CEO
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