What is Neck Sprain?

Your neck, which helps you look up, down, and side-to-side, needs to be very flexible to allow you to see from a wide range of angles. Your bones and soft tissues make this enhanced mobility possible. The cervical spine, which refers to the bones of the neck, are very responsive, but they can also be more vulnerable to damage, disorders, and other concerns that can cause pain and limit movement. In most cases, neck pain is a temporary issue that will subside over time. However, more serious issues require evaluation and treatment to alleviate the symptoms.

Common Causes:

• People who play contact spots
• A hard fall
• A motor vehicle collision (Whiplash)

Symptoms of a Neck Sprain may include:

• Pain, especially in the back of the neck, that worsens with movement
• Pain that peaks a day or so after the injury, instead of immediately
• Muscle spasms and pain in the upper shoulder
• Headache in the back of the head
• Sore throat
• Increased irritability, fatigue, difficulty sleeping, and difficulty concentrating
• Numbness in the arm or hand
• Neck stiffness or decreased range of motion (side to side, up and down, circular)
• Tingling or weakness in the arms

When you arrive for your initial consultation, Orthopedic Physicians Alaska (OPA) team of spine specialists will evaluate your areas of concern, discuss your symptoms, and develop a customized and comprehensive treatment plan tailored to your unique needs. This evaluation is a necessary part of diagnosing your condition and providing the best possible care.

When diagnosing neck pain, The OPA Spine Team:

• A medial, injury, and symptom history review
• A physical examination
• Multiple view x-rays (to rule out a fracture) or MRI

Once an official diagnosis is made, a customized treatment plan is prescribed. Treatment plans decrease your symptoms to help you live an active lifestyle.

Common Treatments:

Medical treatment for a neck sprain is designed to relieve pain and restore range of motion and strength. The majority of hip strains are treated nonsurgically.

(RICE) Method

Rest, ice, compression, and elevation.

NSAIDs

Oral medications decrease nerve inflammation and pain.

Physical Therapy

One of OPA’s onsite physical therapist prescribes and monitors strengthening and stretching exercises.

Most symptoms of neck sprain will go away in 4 to 6 weeks. However, severe injuries, may take longer to heal completely.