Abstract: A cervical collar includes a flexible, elongate support member having two ends, a longitudinal axis, an initial length, and a plurality of slits near at least one end. Each slit defines a terminal segment of the support member and a connective link between the terminal segment and the remainder of the support member. A connector is provided for securing together the two ends. The support member may be manufactured by forming slits near at least one end of a flexible support member. The collar may be applied to a patient by providing a support member which is longer than is needed for the patient's neck, removing a terminal segment of the support member to adjust the length so that the support member is sized to appropriately encircle the patient's neck, flexing the support member around the patient's neck, and connecting the ends of the support member together.