To better understand the implications of neck injuries, let’s first get to know the structure of the neck. The neck, also known as the cervical spine, consists of seven vertebrae that comprise the space between the base of the skull and the upper back or thoracic spine and are stabilized in part by several ligaments. The spinal cord runs through a canal created by these vertebrae. Through small holes in the vertebrae, spinal nerves that control motor and sensory function of the upper body exit the spinal canal.

Intervertebral discs sit between all but the uppermost two vertebrae providing cushion, shock absorption and support. Additionally, there are many muscles in the neck. Some muscles are more superficial--closer to the skin--and often help in moving or positioning the head and arms. Deep layers of muscles lie close to and help move and stabilize the spine. Any of these anatomical structures could be involved in a neck injury.

In the case of acute or severe neck injuries, imaging studies like an X-ray, CT scan or MRI may be ordered by a physician or recommended by your physical therapist to assess the integrity and alignment of the structures in the neck. Based on the findings of these studies an individual may be referred to a spinal surgeon, prescribed medication to manage pain and inflammation and/or referred to physical therapists. Your physical therapist may also perform a series of tests and measures to identify injured structures and determine how best to treat your neck injury. Initially a cervical collar may be prescribed for several weeks to prevent unwanted motion of the spine or for a short time to help with pain management.

WHAT ARE COMMON NECK INJURIES TREATED BY PHYSICAL THERAPISTS?

• Spinal cord injuries causing partial or total paralysis and loss of sensation in the arms, trunk and legs
• Spinal ligament injury
• Intervertebral disc herniation
• Whiplash
• Neck muscle strain
• Injuries requiring surgery to the neck such as a spinal fusion

WHAT SYMPTOMS AND IMPAIRMENTS OF A NECK INJURY CAN IMPROVE WITH PHYSICAL THERAPY?

• Aching, burning, sharp or dull pain in the neck or upper back
• Aching, burning, sharp or dull pain that radiates into the arms and hands
• Numbness or tingling in the neck, arms and hands
• Muscle weakness in the neck, trunk and extremities
• Feelings of tightness in neck muscles
• Loss of range of motion in the neck
• Headaches
• Balance and walking impairments

If you decide to work with a physical therapist to help with neck injury related issues, your entire treatment plan could consist of around 8-20+ different physical therapy for neck injury sessions that will each last 60-90 minutes. Once you complete your customized physical therapy treatment plan, you will be able to continue to do the prescribed stretches and exercises utilized during your PT sessions yet in the comfort of your own home.

HOW DO PHYSICAL THERAPISTS ADDRESS NECK INJURIES?

Your physical therapy plan of care will be individualized to your specific needs. In the case of severe injury or surgical intervention, your physician or surgeon may provide a treatment protocol that will guide your therapist through interventions that are safe and appropriate for your stage of healing. As healing progresses or when there are no specific restrictions to movement or exercise, common physical therapy interventions for neck injuries are as follows:

Strengthening: Restoring strength and endurance to the muscles around the neck, upper back, lower back, trunk and arms is an important part of post-surgical rehabilitation. It will reduce the risk of re-injury and help you return to your prior level of function.

Manual therapy: manual therapy techniques like soft tissue mobilization, myofascial release, dry needling, therapeutic massage and joint mobilization may be employed to address the health and function of soft tissues and joints around the neck.

Stretching: Stretching is often needed after a surgery or injury to restore normal joint motion and muscle length but needs to be done carefully to prevent disruption of the healing process.

Neuromuscular Re-education: This type of treatment is used to improve the motor control and coordination of muscles in and around the neck so that the spine and extremities function well during both daily tasks and higher impact activities like athletics.

Balance and gait training: If the cervical spinal cord is injured, interventions to improve balance and walking may be needed.

Sport- or work-specific Tasks: For athletes returning to sport or individuals returning to a labor-intensive job, sport- and work-specific exercises will be incorporated later on in your rehabilitation to prepare the neck for the demands of returning to play and work. This might include things like lifting, pushing, pulling, running, and jumping exercises.

Neck injuries are never fun but working with a physical therapist can help ensure you are recovering in the best way possible. If you are recovering from a neck injury, call Evolve Physical Therapy today. Our physical therapists are ready to help you get on the road to recovery.