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Sports and Neck Injuries

The neck, also known as the cervical spine, is a series of seven bones referred to as the C1 through C7 vertebrae. An intervertebral disc separates each vertebrae and offers a cushion. These discs protect the spinal cord. A sports-related neck injury to any part of the cervical spine requires immediate medical attention for diagnosis and recovery.

  1. Whiplash

    • Whiplash occurs when the neck moves forward or backwards suddenly. Two terms associated with whiplash are hyperextension and hyperflexion. Hyperextension results when your neck whips backwards whereas hyperflexion occurs when the neck moves forwards. This type of injury happens to gymnasts quite often when they land and their head overextends in either direction. Symptoms include neck stiffness, headaches, dizziness and blurred vision.

    Neck Sprain or Strain

    • Ligaments and muscles hold the seven bones of the cervical column together. If an injury causes the ligaments or muscles to stretch or tear, the result is a neck sprain or strain. A hard fall or sudden jerk can cause a sprain or strain. These injuries can occur in any type of sport, from basketball to soccer. Symptoms include pain in the neck, headache, sore throat and muscle spasms. Treatment involves stopping the sport that caused the injury. Rest and medication may be required for a quick recovery.

    Fracture

    • A break in one or more of the cervical bones results in a cervical fracture. Football, ice hockey, gymnastics and wrestling are all types of sports that have the greatest risk for a cervical fracture. It is important for the athlete to be placed in a neck brace and kept immobile if a fracture is suspected. A complete neurological examination is required to diagnosis a fracture. Due to advanced technology, many athletes who suffer a fracture can make a full recovery.

    Stingers

    • A severe pain associated with the nerves in the neck is called a stinger or burner. It is most common in football players but can occur in other sports, such as wrestling, cycling and gymnastics. When the shoulder takes a hard hit, a stinger will run down the neck into the arm. Stingers generally subside after several minutes but may require medical attention if the burning sensation continues.

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