The Hensinger Head Support is a soft foam wraparound collar for adults and children with poor head control. It is designed to support the head and neck in a mid-line position by supporting the upper chest and under the jawline of the user. The Hensinger Head Support with High Back provides additional support under the base of the head (occupit).
All models must be used in conjunction with a chest/trunk support. The supports can be secured to the users seating system via a solid back plate which buckles
around the back of the seating system (mounting plate).
The Hensinger head support collar can assist with prevention of injury to the head and neck when head control is impaired. It can assist with:
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improved safety during transfers
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improved safety during transportation in a vehicle
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improved safety during bathing/showering
Improved midline head positioning and stability using the Hensinger head support collar can also assist with:
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improved breathing and maintenance of open airways
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improved swallowing and eating
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improved social interaction and communication
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improved functional movement of the eyes eg for use of eye gaze technologies
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All supports come standard with soft blue covers (which can be easily removed and replaced with fashionable long socks of the users choice as shown in the images) and a quick release buckle which allows easy fitting and removal.
Not suitable for individuals with a tracheostomy.
HENSINGER HEAD SUPPORTS
It is very important to work with a health professional when determining suitability and sizing of the Hensinger Head Supports. You must seek professional advice before ordering.
The soft foam collars are made to allow the individual using the support to benefit from being able to move his or her head to retain function, instead of being held in a tight, restrictive position. Therfore correct sizing is vitally important. The individual seating system must always be addressed first to provide stability to the pelvis and trunk.
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Measurements:
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A. Take the neck circumference and round to the nearest 1cm. (Measurement A)
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B. Measure vertically between the top of the shoulder and the bottom of the ear lobe and round off to the nearest 1cm. Then subtract 1.2 cm to allow for ear clearance and head movement. (Measurement B)
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If a chest support is used and it fits over the shoulders, subtract its thickness from the B measurement (a thickness less than 3mm should not affect the fit).
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Size A B
Extra-small 22.8 cm 2.5 cm
Small 30.5 cm 3.8 cm
Medium 35.5 cm 5.0 cm
Large 40.5 cm 6.3 cm
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Alterations in size can be achieved using size reducers/increasers depending on needs. Please contact us for more information.
Head Support Considerations
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Correct selection of a head support requires that a professional evaluation take place considering the following factors:
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Breathing should be improved or maintained at the present level
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Swallowing/drainage should be improved or maintained at the present level
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Head contact areas: head supports maintain the head in mid-line position. The portion of the neck/head area that contacts the support is considered the ‘base area”. Determining the base area helps provide support and maximum comfort. Improper base area selection cam impede breathing, swallowing, blood flow, and cause jaw discomfort.
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Body positioning: head support must only be used in conjunction with correct trunk and plevic support.
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Head control: the level of head control and support needed should be determined professionally.
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