Types of Cervical Spine Injuries

The cervical spine is a connected series of seven bones (vertebrae) and associated structures that extends from the base of the skull to the shoulders. A number of different injuries, conditions or disease processes may affect these bones.

Physical Trauma

• Physical trauma to the cervical spine can result in spinal fracture or dislocation, according to the University of Southern California Center for Spinal Surgery. Due to the highly mobile nature of the neck, these injuries are relatively common.

Cervical Disc Degeneration

• Some individuals may experience deterioration of the cushioning discs that support the spine, according to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons. This condition, called cervical disc degeneration, can increase stress on the cervical joints and trigger additional spinal deterioration.

Nerve Compression

• Various conditions may cause abnormal compression of nerves associated with the cervical spine, according to the Mayo Clinic. These include herniated (ruptured) discs and the presence of arthritis-related bony projections (bone spurs).

Disease Processes

• In addition to arthritis, the Mayo Clinic cites disease processes leading to cervical spine problems that include cancer and meningitis.

Non-Skeletal Pain

• The Mayo Clinic and the AAOS cite sources of non-skeletal neck pain that include excessive forward or rearward motions and chronic muscular overuse.