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This page describes 5 of the most common neck injuries that we see in our clinics. These injuries can be sustained in a number of ways, from sporting injuries and road traffic collisions to trips and falls or as a result of biomechanical abnormalities. Please have a read through the conditions listed and if you have any concerns that you may be suffering with any of the symptoms described, or anything that sounds similar, then please give one of our clinics a call to arrange an assessment appointment with no obligation for follow-up on 0113 257 8594
Description:
Cervical spondylosis is a common age related condition caused by degeneration or “wear and tear” of the vertebrae and discs in the neck. As we age our discs lose fluid naturally which causes them to become stiff resulting in pain and reduced range of movement.
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Description:
Disc herniation is less common; causes include 1) aging whereby the disc loses fluid causing tears to appear or, 2) a neck injury which causes a tear. If there is a tear in the outer part of the disc it can lead to displacement of the disc which encroaches the space occupied by nerves, often pressing on the nerves.
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Description:
Acute neck pain can be due to an unknown cause e.g. “I woke up with pain”, or due to an injury such as a road traffic accident e.g. whiplash associated disorder (WAD). Both of which involve a strain or abnormal stress on muscles and vertebrae. Acute neck pain generally last for 2-4 weeks, but if not treated accordingly can become chronic in nature.
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Description:
The term ‘cervicogenic headache’ means pain that is referred to the head from either the bony or soft structures of the neck (ie. generated by the cervical spine). The cervical nerves innervate (supply nerves to) various regions of the head; therefore, if there is an issue (e.g. tightness in the neck joints or muscles) it can refer pain into these areas of the head. Pain can be referred to the front of the head and even around the eyes.
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Description:
A cervical spine fracture is a medical emergency. If you think you might have a neck fracture then you must seek medical attention immediately. If not treated then it can lead to long-term problems (as extreme as paralysis) but often people make a good recovery with correct treatment. Most fractures are caused by a road traffic collision, fall or violent sports injury such as those sustained playing rugby, wrestling or ice hockey whereby there has been a forceful blow or rotation of the neck. However, fractures can occur during non-contact sports such as power lifting, diving or skiing where strong forces are applied to the neck.
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Once the fracture has healed, physiotherapy treatment can start and this will include:
Content provided by our expert physiotherapists.
Search the Clinics page to find a clinic near you for a no obligation assessment of your neck symptoms, or contact us by using this form or calling 03300 41 46 70.