5/1/2020 Neck Fracture (Cervical Fracture) | UVA Health h Search Menu « Services Search Neck Fracture (Cervical Fracture) Make an Appointment Call 434.924.2663 Schedule Online A neck fracture, also called a cervical fracture, is a break in one or more of the seven cervical bones. The The cervical bones, also called, vertebrae are the bones that make up the spine in the neck. The cervical vertebrae in the neck are labeled C1-C7. They protect the spinal cord, support the neck and allow for movement. It is important to recognize the possibility of a neck fracture. Causes of Neck Fractures A neck fracture is caused by severe trauma to the neck, which is strong enough to break the vertebra. Trauma may be caused by: Falls https://uvahealth.com/services/ortho-trauma/neck-fracture 1/10 5/1/2020 Neck Fracture (Cervical Fracture) | UVA Health Car, motorcycle or pedestrian collisions Diving into shallow water Severe and sudden twist to the neck Severe blows to the head or neck area Cervical Fracture Risks Factors that increase your risk of neck fracture include: Falls from heights, such as a Copyright © Nucleus Medical Media, Inc. ladder, bike or horse Advancing age Osteoporosis Certain diseases or conditions that result in bone or mineral loss, such as abnormal or absent menstrual cycles, or post-menopause Certain diseases and conditions that weaken bones, such as tumors or cysts Decreased muscle mass Playing certain sports that may result in neck fracture, such as football, rugby or ice hockey Not wearing your seatbelt or protective sports equipment Head or other traumatic injury, such as severe chest trauma, pelvic or femur fractures Violence Fractured Neck Symptoms A neck fracture is very serious and can lead to paralysis or possibly death. A person with a neck injury should not be moved without competent medical care, which is needed immediately. Neck fracture may cause: Severe pain Swelling and possible bruising Tenderness Decreased feeling in the arms or legs Muscle weakness or paralysis of the arms or legs https://uvahealth.com/services/ortho-trauma/neck-fracture 2/10 5/1/2020 Neck Fracture (Cervical Fracture) | UVA Health Diagnosing Fractures in the Neck You will most likely be taken to a hospital. The doctor will ask about your symptoms, physical activity, and how the injury occurred. The doctor will examine the injured area and perform a complete neurological exam. Imaging tests may include: X-rays —to look for breaks in the bones or a dislocation of the vertebrae MRI —provides cross-sectional images to look for spinal cord damage CT scan —to analyze bone injury and to see if the spinal cord is compressed by a collection of blood Neck Fracture Treatment Neck fractures are serious injuries that can lead to paralysis or death. Call for medical help right away. Immobilize and Stabilize the Injury When there is a possibility of a neck fracture, immediate and complete immobilization of the head and neck area is necessary. Avoid excessive movement to prevent or minimize spinal cord injury. For athletes, it is recommended to keep the helmet and shoulder pads on while immobilizing the spine. Once immobilized, you will be assessed for any other problems, such as secondary injuries, shock or airway obstruction. Stabilizing your injury may include: A breathing tube for a blocked airway IV fluids Admission to the hospital for monitoring Initial Care Once you are stabilized and assessed, your course of treatment will depend on: The severity of the fracture Which of the cervical bones are broken Which part of the cervical bones are broken Whether there is temporary or permanent spinal cord or nerve injury Treatment options for neck fracture include: Neck brace or collar — Minor fractures can be treated with a neck brace or collar for up to 8 weeks. These devices will keep your neck in line while it heals. Traction — Rigid braces or a halo vest worn for up to 12 weeks can be used to treat more severe or unstable fractures. Traction allows for minimal movement beyond what is necessary. https://uvahealth.com/services/ortho-trauma/neck-fracture 3/10 5/1/2020 Neck Fracture (Cervical Fracture) | UVA Health Surgery — Plates, screws, or wires may be needed to reconnect bone pieces and hold them in place. Surgery may also be needed to repair vertebrae, relieve pressure on the spinal cord or remove any damaged vertebral discs. Overall recovery time depends on whether or not you have any permanent injuries. Physical therapy and rehabilitation can last for months or years. Hospitalization People with neck fractures usually need to stay in the hospital. Serious injuries may need to be watched in an intensive care unit. Some people with neck fractures need to have help breathing. A tube is inserted and mechanical ventilation is used to protect and assist breathing. Medications You may need the following: Pain medication Antibiotics if an infection is present or possible Rest and Recovery Healing time varies by age and your overall health. Children and people in better overall health heal faster. In general, it may take several weeks to several months for a neck fracture to heal. As you recover, you may be referred to physical therapy to keep your muscles strong. Do not return to activities or sports until your doctor gives you permission to do so. It is possible that you may have permanent damage or paralysis even if your neck heals. If this is the case, you will need long-term rehabilitation. Long-term Rehabilitation A neck fracture can sometimes result in spinal cord and nerve injury and paralysis. This may require major life changes, involving work, family, and social life. Extensive rehabilitation may be required, including occupational therapy, psychotherapy or support groups. If you have a neck fracture, follow your doctor's instructions . Preventing Neck Fractures To help reduce your chance of getting a neck fracture, take these steps: Avoid situations that put you at risk of physical harm. Always wear a seatbelt when driving in a car. Do not drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Wear proper padding and safety equipment when participating in sports or activities. Use proper tackling techniques in football. Do not spear with your helmet. Never dive in the shallow end of a pool. https://uvahealth.com/services/ortho-trauma/neck-fracture 4/10 5/1/2020 Neck Fracture (Cervical Fracture) | UVA Health Never dive into water where you do not know the depth or what obstacles may be present. Do weight-bearing exercises to build strong muscles and bones. To help reduce falling hazards at work and home, take these steps: Clean spills and slippery areas right away. Remove tripping hazards such as loose cords, rugs and clutter. Use non-slip mats in the bathtub and shower. Install grab bars next to the toilet and in the shower or tub. Put in handrails on both sides of stairways. Walk only in well-lit rooms, stairs and halls. Keep flashlights on hand in case of a power outage. Content was created using EBSCO’s Health Library. Edits to original content made by Rector and Visitors of the University of Virginia. This information is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Related Providers All providers » Nevan G. Baldwin, MD Neurosurgery, Spine Avery L Buchholz, MD General Neurological Surgery Appointment, Neurosurgery, Spine https://uvahealth.com/services/ortho-trauma/neck-fracture 5/10 5/1/2020 Neck Fracture (Cervical Fracture) | UVA Health Hamid Hassanzadeh, MD Spine Surgery Gregory A Helm, MD, PhD General Neurological Surgery Appointment, Neurosurgery, Spine Elisa J Kucia, MD Neurosurgery, Spine Mark E. Shaffrey, MD General Neurological Surgery Appointment, Neurosurgery, Spine https://uvahealth.com/services/ortho-trauma/neck-fracture 6/10 5/1/2020 Neck Fracture (Cervical Fracture) | UVA Health Francis Shen, MD Spine Surgery Adam L Shimer, MD Spine Surgery Anuj Singla, MD Spine Surgery Justin S Smith, MD General Neurological Surgery Appointment, Neurosurgery, Spine https://uvahealth.com/services/ortho-trauma/neck-fracture 7/10 5/1/2020 Neck Fracture (Cervical Fracture) | UVA Health Rosemarie Tyger, MS, PA Spine Surgery Dennis G Vollmer, MD General Neurological Surgery Appointment, Neurosurgery, Spine Chun-Po Yen, MD Radiosurgery, General Neurological Surgery Appointment, Neurosurgery, Spine 1215 Lee Street Charlottesville, VA 22903 d Map & Directions UVA HEALTH About Us Contact Us Clinical Trials & Research News Services https://uvahealth.com/services/ortho-trauma/neck-fracture 8/10 5/1/2020 Neck Fracture (Cervical Fracture) | UVA Health Quality & Safety COMMUNITY Community Partnerships Find a Job Donate Volunteer For Healthcare Providers Referrals PATIENTS & VISITORS Coming to the Hospital Contact a Patient Give Feedback Medical Records Pay your Bill Getting Financial Assistance Send an eCard c j l f © 2020 Rector and Visitors of the University of Virginia. 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