Neck Sprain
People who are involved in motor vehicle accidents or who take hard falls in a contact sport or around the house may get a real "pain in the neck." This type of pain is a result of a muscle strain or ligament sprain.
The cervical vertebrae is made up of seven bones which are connected to each other by ligaments. Ligaments are strong bands of tissue, like thick rubber bands.
A sprain is a stretch or tear in the ligament resulting from a sudden movement that causes the neck to extend to an extreme position. For example, in a high speed auto accident where there is a rapid deceleration, your head and neck can stretch far forward before stopping.
Symptoms of Neck Sprain
- Pain, especially in the back of the neck, that worsens with movement.
- Pain that often peaks a day or so after the injury
- Onset of pain usually isn’t immediate
- Possible muscle spasms and pain in the upper regions of the shoulders.
- Headache in the rear of the head.
- Sore throat.
- Increased irritability, fatigue, difficulty sleeping and difficulty concentrating. Numbness in the arm or hand.
- Stiffness or decrease in range of motion (side to side, up and down, circular).
- Tingling or weakness in the arms.
Diagnosis
- A comprehensive physical examination by your physican
- Exam includes measuring range of motion and checking for areas of tenderness
- Tell your physician exactly how the injury occurred
- Xrays to take a closer look at the bones in your neck. This evaluation helps eliminate or identify other sources of neck pain, such as spinal fractures, dislocations, arthritis and other serious conditions.
Treatment
All sprains and strains in the neck are usually treated conservatively because they will gradually heal, given the proper amount of time and treatment.
Your treatment plan may include the following:
- Get some rest
- You might have to wear a soft cervical collar to help support the head and relieve pressure on the neck. This allows time for the ligaments to heal
- Medications: analgesic and anti-inflammatory medications are prescribed, such as Aspirin, Ibuprofen & Naprosyn, to relieve pain, swelling and spasms.
- Muscle Relaxants: are prescribed to ease the neck and muscle spasms
- Apply ice packs for 15-30 minutes at a time, a few times a day for 2-3 days after the injury to reduce inflammation and discomfort
- Moist heat can help loosen cramped muscles
- Massaging the tender area
- Ultrasound
- Cervical traction
- Aerobic and isometric exercises prescribed by your physician
Most symptoms will resolve in four to six weeks. A severe injury, such as might be sustained in a motor vehicle accident, may take longer to heal completely.
