Neck Injury: Causes, Treatments, and Prevention Measures
Neck injuries are more common than most think and range from mild discomfort to severe and debilitating pain. The neck, also called the cervical spine, is made up of seven vertebrae that support the weight of your head and allow for movement. This range of motion makes the neck susceptible to injury from things like poor posture, accidents, and underlying health conditions.
Common Causes of a Neck Injury
A neck injury can appear over time due to repetitive strain or degenerative conditions, as well as arise from a sudden trauma or accident. Understanding the causes of neck injuries is the first step towards treatment and prevention.
1. Whiplash
One of the main causes of a neck injury is whiplash. Most individuals experience this from car accidents. It occurs when the head is jolted backwards and then forwards, causing the soft tissue to stretch abnormally. Some symptoms include neck pain, stiffness, headaches, dizziness, and, in severe cases, cognitive issues.
2. Poor Posture
Prolonged use of technology like phones and computers results in poor posture and can lead to “gamer’s neck.” When holding your head forwards and looking down, it puts strain on the cervical spine that can then lead to muscle fatigue, joint dysfunction, or degeneration over time.
3. Muscle Strain
Athletes, office workers, and manual laborers are prone to neck injury as a result of muscle strain. Repetitive movements or prolonged positions can strain the neck muscles and ligaments.
4. Degenerative Disc Disease
As you age, the discs between the cervical vertebrae can degenerate and lead to conditions like cervical spondylosis or herniated discs. These conditions can compress nerves, leading to chronic pain, tingling, numbness, or weakness.
5. Neck Injury from Physical Activity
Contact sports like wrestling and football have an increased risk of players developing a neck injury. If proper technique or safety gear isn’t used, a neck injury may occur.
Treatment for a Neck Injury
Depending on the severity and cause of injury, the treatment options will vary. Seek medical attention immediately if you experience persistent pain, numbness, tingling, or weakness in the arms.
1. Rest
For minor to mild injuries, resting and avoiding activities that worsen the pain can be a treatment option for some. Short periods of rest and a gradual return to normal activity will prevent stiffness while promoting healing.
2. Physical Therapy
A physical therapist will develop a personalized program that will help you work towards restoring strength, flexibility, and range of motion in your neck. These programs may include activities like stretching, strengthening exercises, and posture correction.
3. Medication
For mild cases, over-the-counter pain relievers can help relieve pain and inflammation. For more severe cases, a muscle relaxant or prescription pain medication may be prescribed by your physician.
4. Ice and Heat Therapy
Applying ice after an injury will reduce inflammation and numb pain. After the initial swelling goes down, applying heat to the area will relax tense muscles and improve circulation while promoting healing.
5. Injections
A corticosteroid injection may be recommended by your doctor to reduce inflammation and pain around the nerves and joints in your neck. This is typically an option available after trying other treatments without having any success.
6. Surgery
Surgery is an option for those who have experienced a severe injury or have attempted other treatment options and haven’t experienced any relief. Common surgeries for the neck are cervical discectomy, spinal fusion, and laminectomy. These procedures relieve pressure on nerves or stabilize the spine.
Preventative Measures for Neck Injuries
Preventing a neck injury, whether you have experienced one in the past or want to reduce your risk, can be done by adopting some of these habits.
Sitting: While sitting, you should keep your shoulders relaxed and back, your feet flat on the floor, and if working on a computer, you should keep the monitor at eye level.
Standing: Aligning your head over your shoulders and avoiding slouching your neck forward will help your standing posture.
Sleeping: Use a pillow that supports your natural neck curve. Avoid sleeping on your stomach.
2. Strengthening Neck and Back Muscles
Implementing exercises that target your neck, shoulders, and upper back can increase stability and reduce the risk of a neck injury occurring. Chin tucks, shoulder blade squeezes, and isometric neck exercises are a few activities that will promote stability.
3. Ergonomic Workspace
Having an ergonomic environment will reduce strain on the cervical spine. Set up your work area so that everything is within reach and promotes neutral positioning. A Standing desk, ergonomic chair, and external keyboard or monitor are all items that will make your workspace ergonomic.
4. Take Breaks
Avoid standing or sitting in one position for too long. Get up and move around every hour to prevent stiffness and tension.
5. Lifting Techniques
When lifting a heavy object, use your legs instead of your back and neck. Keep the object close to your body and avoid twisting motions.
6. Avoid Tucking Your Phone
Many find themselves putting their phone between their neck and shoulder when on a phone call. Avoid doing this; instead, use headphones or the speakerphone. This habit puts strain on the muscles of the neck and can create stiffness.
7. Protective Equipment
Athletes should always wear the appropriate gear for their sport, especially for high-risk sports. Helmets, neck braces, and proper coaching can reduce the risk of a neck injury occurring.
When Should I See a Doctor?
While minor to mild neck injuries can be resolved on their own through home care and rest, you should seek medical attention if you experience:
- Persistent, chronic pain
- Numbness, tingling, or weakness in the arms or hands
- Loss of bladder or bowel control (this can be an indicator of a severe spinal issue)
- Pain after an accident or fall
- Weight loss, fever, or night sweats, along with neck pain.
Contact a Doctor at the Jacksonville Orthopaedic Institute
If you have experienced a neck injury, the Jacksonville Orthopaedic Institute can help. JOI physicians continue to offer online new patient appointments. Contact us today to schedule your first appointment with JOI!