Cervical Neck Injuries

The term "cervical" refers to the area of the spine starting at the base of the skull and is comprised of 7 vertebrae and 8 pairs of spinal nerves. These vertebrae house and protect the spine and allow the neck to move from front to back, side to side, and in a rotation. The cervical area of the neck is also made up of muscles, ligaments and tendons. Together with the nerves, the parts of the cervical neck area are responsible for movement and functions in the head and neck, chest and arms. Because of the fragile nature of the cervical spine, cervical neck injuries can occur.

Whiplash

• Whiplash is an injury that occurs when the neck is subject to a sudden back-and-forth movement, often the result of a rear-end car collision. The normal curvature of the neck and upper back is pulled out of alignment, and the muscles and ligaments are hyper-extended, or overstretched. This causes damage which can manifest as tingling, numbness, muscle spasms, tightness and pain in the neck and upper back. Severe whiplash can also damage discs, ligaments, muscles and tendons. However, most people recover with time.

Fractures

• Cervical neck injuries that result in fractures of one or more cervical vertebrae are more serious because they can lead to paralysis or death. Fractures are usually the result of severe trauma to the neck that is caused by a fall, sudden and sharp twisting of the neck or a blow to the head. People most at risk for neck fractures are those who already suffer from degenerative conditions that weaken the structures of the neck, those who play contact sports, such as football, and those who don't wear their seat belts while driving.

  In the event of a suspected fracture, the neck should be immobilized so that a physician can take and evaluate x-rays. Additional neurological testing, include an MRI, might be ordered, as well. Minor fractures can be treated with the patient wearing a cervical brace for 6 to 8 weeks, with more extensive injuries requiring surgery and complete immobilization until the fracture is healed.

Lifestyle

• While cervical injuries sustained from daily living might not be as sudden occurring as whiplash or neck fractures, they still have an impact on the health and wellness of the cervical spine. Having poor posture, carrying too much weight and weak abdominal muscles can pull on and strain the structures of the neck. Likewise, feeling emotionally tense or stressed-out can cause a literal pain in the neck.

Age

• The process of aging can lead to cervical neck injuries as cartilage, joints and muscles weaken. Osteoarthritis is a condition in which cartilage degrades over time, making the joints more susceptible to injury. During osteoarthritis, tiny bone spurs form on the cervical spine and cause a decrease in mobility and an increase in pain. Spinal stenosis is a condition caused by the narrowing of the passageways through which spinal nerves travel. The nerves become compressed, which can cause pain, tingling and numbness. Degenerative disc disease occurs when the discs between the vertebrae dehydrate, lose their elastic property, and then bulge or become herniated.

Tips

• To avoid or decrease your chances of a cervical neck injury, practice stretching your neck throughout the day and especially before exercising. Avoid sleeping on your stomach, as that distorts the spine. When working at your desk, be sure to position your computer directly in front of you so that you are not turning your head to see the screen. Relax, and take a deep breath. Even feeling stressed-out can take its toll on your neck. In the event of an injury, applying ice within the first 20 minutes can help ease pain. Follow-up by alternating hot and cold every 20 minutes for 24 to 48 hours.