Health First - Neck Injuries

Some type of fall or accident most often causes a neck injury. If a head or neck injury is known or suspected from circumstances, DO NOT MOVE THE PERSON UNLESS THERE IS AN IMMEDIATE THREAT TO THEIR LIFE. CALL FOR EMERGENCY CARE. If moving becomes absolutely necessary, support the head and neck so it is in a straight line with the body and move the entire body, including the head and neck, as a single unit.

CALL FOR EMERGENCY CARE IF THE PAIN IS SEVERE AFTER INJURY OR IF THERE IS A LACK OF MOVEMENT OR FEELING. IF THE NECK PAIN RADIATES INTO THE ARMS OR LEGS, SEEK MEDICAL ATTENTION AS SOON AS POSSIBLE.

Accidents are major causes of neck injury. Sudden jerking of the head back and forth causes whiplash injuries. Whiplash is a neck sprain in which the ligaments that connect the spine are stretched or torn. Pain and stiffness may take a few hours or days to develop after an injury. Sometimes the neck area hurts even though there has been no visible injury. Medical care is needed if pain is constant, severe, or occurs with headache, numbness, tingling, or weakness.

Neck pain can also be due to overuse of the muscles or nerves of the neck. Arthritis can also cause neck pain. Neck pain caused by infection and tumours are rare. Disc disease results from narrowing of the space between the bones of the spine. This occurs when the soft cushion, called the disc, degenerates or breaks down and the bony surfaces of the vertebrae rub together. Stiffness and pain occur with movement. A slipped disc results when a disc that is located between the bones of the spine moves and puts pressure on the nerves in that area. Occasionally, a disc will rupture, which is more serious and more painful.

A variety of non-emergency neck problems can develop. A pinched nerve in the neck caused by a blow to the head or neck that forces the neck to bend sideways. "Wryneck" is a stiff neck with pain to one side. Holding the neck in an unusual position for a long time causes it. Bone spurs can form on bones of the spine causing pain and damage to nerves.

Different neck problems require different treatments. Seek a doctor to evaluate, diagnose, and treat the illness. The doctor will advise and treat in order to relieve discomfort and restore proper function.

Article #4204