How to Wear a Halo After a Spinal Cord Injury

After a spinal cord injury you may be required to wear a halo brace, an apparatus which keeps your head and neck immobile and in an optimal position to allow the injured ligaments and your spinal cord to heal properly while also providing support to your neck muscles. Your halo brace will enable you to start moving more freely (as opposed to being confined to bed) while you are healing. Your doctor will give you detailed instructions on how to wear the halo; however, following a few simple steps can help to make the process easier.

Instructions

Adjusting to Your Halo

• 1

  Know what to expect when the halo is placed on. You'll receive a local anesthetic to numb you and then the doctor will place four pins connecting your head to the halo. After the halo is in place, your doctor may recommend staying in bed for several days before connecting you to the vest which will then allow you to get up and move.

• 2

  Expect that it will take time to adjust to wearing the halo. Wear the halo continuously for the period of time designated by your doctor (usually between three and four months). You will need to have periodic appointments to check the pin sites and the fit of the brace.

• 3

  You will need to gently cleanse your skin around the halo pins twice daily. Use a cotton swab, water, soap and/or hydrogen peroxide. Use gentle pressure and direct your skin in the opposite direction from the pins. This will help to avoid your skin from adhering to the pins as well as lessen scar tissue.

• 4

  Know your restrictions. You will not be able to color your hair, shower, drive or adjust the pins. You should not ride in the front seat of a car equipped with passenger-side airbags.