Broken Neck

The cervical vertebrae, consisting of seven bones, play a crucial role in supporting the head and connecting it to the shoulders and body. A fracture in one of these cervical vertebrae is often referred to as a broken neck. Cervical fractures typically occur due to high-energy trauma, such as car accidents or falls. For older adults, even a fall from a standing position, like slipping off a chair, can lead to a cervical fracture. Athletes also face a heightened risk of these injuries.

Any injury to the vertebrae can have serious consequences because the spinal cord, the central nervous system's connection between the brain and the body, runs through the center of the vertebrae. Damage to the spinal cord is very serious and can result in paralysis or death. Injury to the spinal cord at the level of the cervical spine can lead to temporary or permanent paralysis of the entire body from the neck down.

Acting as the main connection between the brain and body, any injury to the bones in the neck need to be treated immediately to avoid permanent damage. After an injury to the neck, the neck should be immobilized until a doctor has evaluated the injury.

Treatment:

Treatment will depend on the location and severity of your injury.

• A minor compression fracture can be treated with a cervical brace worn for 6 to 8 weeks until the bone heals.
• A more serious fracture may require traction, surgery, and , in some cases, 2 to 3 months in a rigid cast, or any combination of these treatments.

Anyone experiencing a traumatic neck injury should immediately see a qualified physician for immediate evaluation and treatment.

You can read more about neck fractures on the AAOS website.