Cervical Strain Research Paper

Cervical strain and sprain are injuries that affect the tissues that connect the bones in the neck (cervical spine). A strain is when muscles or tissues (tendons) that connect muscles to bones stretch or tear. A sprain is when the tissues (ligaments) that connect bones to one another stretch or tear. Cervical strains and sprains usually happen because of "whiplash" injuries. These are injuries caused by a sudden forward and backward whipping movement of the head and neck.

These conditions can range from mild to severe. A cervical strain or sprain can affect the nerves, the spinal cord, or the tissue (spinal disks) between the bones of the cervical spine. Generally, recovery from a cervical strain or sprain is possible in 1 week to 3 months.

CAUSES
Cervical strains and sprains are commonly caused by a whiplash injury.

Whiplash injuries often happen because of motor vehicle collisions or contact sport injuries.

These conditions may also be caused by:

• A fall.

• A hard, direct hit or injury (trauma) to the neck.

RISK FACTORS

This condition is more likely to develop in:

• People who participate in activities or sports that have a high risk of trauma to the neck. This includes contact sports, auto racing, gymnastics, and diving.

• People who use incorrect tackling technique.

• People who wear equipment that is not properly padded or does not fit correctly.

• People who take risks when driving or riding in a motor vehicle, such as speeding.

• People who have osteoarthritis of the spine.

• People who have poor strength and flexibility of the neck.

• People who have injured their neck in the past.

SYMPTOMS

Symptoms of this condition may include:

• Pain, soreness, stiffness, or a burning sensation in the front, back, or sides of the neck.

• Swelling of the neck.

• Pain in the shoulder or upper back.

• Limited ability to move the neck.

• Headache.

• Dizziness.

• Nausea.

• Vomiting.

• Weakness, numbness, or tingling in a hand or an

arm.
• Muscle spasms.
• Difficulty swallowing or chewing.
Symptoms may develop immediately after injury, or they may develop over a few days. In some cases, symptoms may go away with treatment and return (recur) over time.

DIAGNOSIS
This condition may be diagnosed based on your symptoms, your medical history, and a physical exam. You may have tests, including:
• X-rays.
• CT scan.
• MRI.

TREATMENT
This condition is treated by resting and icing the injured area, and by doing physical therapy exercises. Depending on the severity of your condition, treatment may also include:
• Keeping your neck in place (immobilization) for periods of time. This may be done using:
○ A cervical collar. This supports your chin and the back of your head.
○ A cervical traction device. This is a sling that holds up your head. This removes weight and pressure from your neck, and may help to relieve pain.
• Medicines that help to relieve pain and inflammation.
• Medicines that relax your muscles.
• Surgery. This is rare.

HOME CARE INSTRUCTIONS
If You Have a Cervical Collar:
• Wear it as told by your health care provider. Do not remove the collar unless instructed by your health care provider.
• Ask your health care provider before making any adjustments to your collar.
• Ask your health care provider if you can remove the collar for cleaning and bathing. If you are allowed to remove the collar for cleaning or bathing:
○ Follow your health care provider’s instructions about how to remove the collar safely.
○ Clean the collar by wiping it with mild soap and water and drying it completely.
○ If your collar has removable pads, remove them every 1–2 days and hand wash them with soap and water. Let them air dry completely before you put them back in the collar.
○ Check your skin for irritation or sores under the collar. If you see any, tell your health care provider.
Managing Pain, Stiffness, and Swelling
• If directed, use a cervical traction device as told by your health care provider.
• If directed, apply ice to the injured area:
○ Put ice in a plastic bag.
○ Place a towel between your skin and the bag.
○ Leave the ice on for 20 minutes, 2–3 times per day.
• If directed, apply heat to the affected area before you exercise or as often as told by your health care provider. Use the heat source that your health care provider recommends, such as a moist heat pack or a heating pad.
○ Place a towel between your skin and the heat source.
○ Leave the heat on for 20–30 minutes.
○ Remove the heat if your skin turns bright red. This is especially important if you are unable to feel pain, heat, or cold. You may have a greater risk of getting burned.
Driving
• Do not drive while wearing a cervical collar.
• If you do not have a cervical collar, ask your health care provider if it is safe to drive while your neck heals.
• Do not drive or operate heavy machinery while taking prescription pain medicine or muscle relaxants, unless your health care provider approves.
Activity
• Return to your normal activities as told by your health care provider. Ask your health care provider what activities are safe for you.
• Avoid activities that cause pain or make your condition worse.
• Do not lift anything that is heavier than 10 lb (4.5 kg) until your health care provider tells you that it is safe.
• Do exercises as told by your health care provider.