Q-Collar: How it works, and should you use it for Concussions?

Sports-related concussions continue to be a significant concern for athletes of all ages. As research progresses, new technologies aim to mitigate the risk of head injuries. One such innovation is the Q-Collar, a device designed to protect the brain by reducing the potential forces that could lead to concussions.

What Is the Q-Collar?

The Q-Collar is a lightweight, flexible neckband that athletes wear during physical activities or sports. While it has received FDA clearance, it is important to note that the Q-Collar is not FDA-approved to prevent concussions. Rather, it is intended to reduce the severity of brain movement during impacts—which can potentially decrease concussion risks.

 The Science Behind the Q-Collar

The Q-Collar works by applying gentle pressure to the jugular veins in the neck. This pressure on the jugular veins slows the flow of blood out of the head and subsequently increases the volume of blood in the head. Q-collar claims that this increased blood volume creates a "cushioning" effect, by stabilizing the brain and reducing movement inside the skull during sudden impacts. This decreased movement of the brain inside the skull from an increase in blood volume and subsequent increase in intra-cranial pressure aims to lower the forces that contribute to concussive injuries.

How Does It Claim to Reduce Concussion Risk?

Concussions occur when the brain moves rapidly within the skull, causing the brain to twist and stretch, which can cause damage to brain cells and neural connections. By increasing blood volume in the brain's venous structures, the Q-Collar aims to:

• Reduce Brain Slosh: The slight increase in intracranial blood volume potentially offers more stability to the brain, minimizing movement during impacts.

• Protect Neural Tissue: By limiting brain movement, the Q-Collar may help reduce the strain placed on delicate neural structures, potentially lowering the risk of injury.

FDA Clearance and Safety Considerations

While the Q-Collar has received FDA clearance, it is crucial to note that this does not equate to FDA approval for preventing concussions. The device is approved for use in reducing certain types of brain injury risk during activities, but its effectiveness in concussion prevention remains unproven.

The Q-Collar is cleared for only up to 4 hours of use at a time and should be replaced after two years of active use or upon the product’s expiration date listed on the package, whichever comes first. However, there are primary safety concerns to consider, particularly regarding rare incidents like syncope (fainting) or loss of consciousness from the use of Q-Collar. If these symptoms occur, use should be discontinued immediately.

Contraindications for Q-Collar Use

The Q-Collar has not been tested and should not be used on athletes with the following conditions:

• Increased pressure in the skull (including uncontrolled ocular-glaucoma)

• Increased presence of acid in the body or excessive blood alkalinity

• Open head injury (including in or around the eye) within the past six months

• Pseudotumor cerebri (false brain tumor)

• Presence of brain or spinal shunt

• Accumulation of cerebrospinal fluid within the brain

• Known seizure disorder

• Known trachea abnormality

• Known airway obstruction

• Known carotid hypersensitivity

• Blood clot in the brain

• Increased likelihood of blood clotting (coagulation)

• Collections of small blood vessels in the brain that are enlarged and irregular in structure

• Skin injury, rash, or other abnormality on or around the neck

It is crucial to consult a healthcare provider before use, especially for those with pre-existing conditions.

Evidence and Research

Several studies, particularly in athletes involved in contact sports, have shown that the Q-Collar may reduce structural changes in the brain associated with impacts. Research involving MRI scans suggests that the Q-Collar could play a role in protecting the brain from injury during sports activities.

However, it is essential to note that this research has potential conflicts of interest, as researchers have financial ties to the company that manufactures the Q-Collar. Independent replication of these findings is necessary to fully validate the device’s effectiveness.

Considerations for Use

• The Q-Collar is intended for athletes aged 13 and older.

• It must be worn correctly as per the manufacturer’s instructions.

• The device does not prevent concussions but may help reduce their severity by stabilizing brain movement.

Conclusion

While the Q-Collar potentially offers an additional layer of protection, it should not be considered a replacement for other concussion prevention strategies, such as proper sports technique, equipment (Helmet, Mouth guard, etc.), and adherence to safety protocols. Based on the current level of research I feel that the potential risks outweigh the benefits of using the Q-Collar, which is why I do not currently recommend using the Q-Collar for the athletes that I treat. Now if additional unbiased research studies are published that represent that the Q-Collar is safe and effective at decreasing concussion risk then I may support this product in the future.

Athletes, coaches, and parents must remember that no device can completely prevent concussions. The Q-Collar is a tool aimed at reducing risk, but a comprehensive approach to concussion safety is essential.

For more information on concussion prevention, be sure to explore our comprehensive concussion resources, providing evidence-based insights for keeping athletes safe.

Q-Collar Website: https://q30.com/?srsltid=AfmBOooBrngib5u93qyCPV6uoUsKCz_eZLySlKMRyCmT7xbwqsaCcHYD