A neck restraint system for surgical candidates and recovering patients has at least one or more rigid or semi-rigid members including a fabric cover for supporting a plurality of cushioning or padding elements. The cushions elements are preferably conformable fabric bags partially filled with either memory elastic foam and/or foam beads to provide conformability. The fabric cover provides for exterior cosmetic customization and secure juxtaposition of replaceable and/or exchangeable cushioning elements. The cushioning elements are disposed over and around the edges portions of the rigid or semi-rigid restraint members that would otherwise rub, chafe or abrade the skin even if padded. Periodic changes of the type of cushioning elements prevent and alleviate such skin irritation and provide greater patient comfort.
