Why is any neck injury considered serious?

National Athletic Trainers' Association

The neck contains many bones, nerves, and ligaments. These protect the spinal cord and help the neck and upper body move. Injuries to these structures may cause lasting injury or death if they are not recognized and treated correctly right away.

(This answer provided for NATA by the University of Alabama Athletic Training Education Program.)

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Important: This content reflects information from various individuals and organizations and may offer alternative or opposing points of view. It should not be used for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. As always, you should consult with your healthcare provider about your specific health needs.

Neck Injury

Whiplash is one type of neck injury. Any type of injury to the neck that causes pain, swelling, a lump in the neck or inflammation can be considered a neck injury. Falls, car crashes and sports mishaps are common causes of these injuries. With whiplash, the cervical vertebrae in the neck become strained or sprained because the neck suddenly extended and flexed after a rapid acceleration or deceleration. Symptoms include neck stiffness and pain, dizziness and headache. Treatment might include a mix of immobilizing the neck in a cervical collar, taking pain-relief medication and anti-inflammatory drugs, and undergoing physical therapy.

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