Neck Sprain

Motor vehicle accidents or hard falls that may occur in contact sports or around the house or on the job may cause pain in the neck from a ligament sprain or muscle strain. Ligaments, which are large, rubbery bands that connect the bones of the upper spinal column, can be stretched or torn by a sudden movement that causes the neck to extend in an abnormal way. The sudden stopping of a car, for instance, can cause your head and neck to jerk forward.  

Symptoms  

• Pain, especially in the back of the neck, that worsens with movement
• Pain, that often increases a day or so after the injury, instead of immediately
• Possible muscle spasms and pain in the upper areas 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
During the exam, the doctor will ask how the injury happened, measure range of motion and check for tenderness in the area. The orthpaedist may order X-ray studies to look closely at the bones in your neck. This will help him or her to eliminate or identify other problems, such as spinal fractures, dislocations, arthritis and other serious conditions.

Treatment
Sprains and strains in the neck will gradually heal in four to six weeks, although you may have to wear a soft cervical collar to help support the neck and relieve pressure on the ligaments and muscles for a time.

Analgesics, such as aspirin or ibuprofen, can help reduce pain and any swelling. Muscle relaxants can help ease muscle spasms. Applying an ice pack for 15 to 30 minutes several times a day for a couple of days after the injury will help reduce inflammation and discomfort. Although heat, particularly moist heat can help loosen cramped muscles, it should not be applied too soon. Your doctor can advise you on this.

Other treatment options include

• Messaging the tender area
• Ultrasound
• Cervical traction
• Aerobic and isometric exercise

More serious injuries may take longer to heal completely.