5 common types of neck injuries

Muscle strains, nerve compression, vertebral fractures… are common neck injuries that, if not treated promptly, can lead to serious complications.

According to Dr. Vu Duc Thang, Department of Spinal Neurosurgery, Tam Anh General Hospital, Ho Chi Minh City, mild neck injuries often heal on their own with proper home care such as rest, ice packs, and pain medication. Severe injuries or improper treatment can lead to dangerous complications. Patients should see a doctor if the pain lasts longer than a week and gradually worsens, or if symptoms appear after an accident at work, in traffic, or during daily activities.

The most common symptom is aching pain in the neck area, appearing a few hours or days after the injury. Patients may also experience neck stiffness and pain in the back of the head. In severe cases, other symptoms may appear such as shoulder and arm pain, reduced mobility, tinnitus, and difficulty swallowing.

Additionally, depending on the type of neck injury, there will be different characteristic signs such as:

Neck muscle strain : Any activity that requires maintaining the neck in an uncomfortable position for an extended period can lead to fatigue, spasms, and strain in the neck muscles. Patients may have difficulty rotating or tilting their neck, and this may be accompanied by headaches.

Neck stiffness and pain can be a warning sign of injury in this area. (Image: Freepik)

Cervical ligament injuries : The cervical spine consists of 7 vertebrae connected by ligaments and muscles. Sudden changes in movement can cause excessive bending of the neck, leading to tissue stretching, tearing, and damage to ligaments or muscles.

Cervical disc herniation : The cervical spine is an area of ​​constant movement and high pressure, making the discs susceptible to damage and herniation. Cervical disc herniation occurs when one or more discs between the cervical vertebrae are damaged, slip out of their original position, and compress the spinal cord and nerves in the spinal canal. This leads to neck and shoulder pain and localized sensory disturbances.

Nerve compression: Under the influence of certain factors, the cervical nerves are compressed, causing aching, numbness, dull pain, and tingling in the neck, shoulders, and upper back. The pain may radiate down the shoulder, shoulder blade, arm, or fingers (along the path of the nerve roots). Patients experience reduced mobility and impaired movement.

Cervical spine fracture : This occurs when a significant force is applied to the neck, causing the vertebrae to crack or break, such as in traffic accidents, daily activities, or sports injuries. The patient experiences intense pain at the time of injury. The pain may radiate from the neck to the shoulder or arm due to the vertebra compressing the nerves. The patient may also experience bruising or swelling on the back of the neck.

Doctor Thang (holding instruments) during a spinal surgery. Photo: Tam Anh General Hospital.

Dr. Thang stated that people with neck injuries may experience discomfort, numbness, pain, and in more severe cases, chronic pain, permanent disability, or death due to cervical vertebral fractures or spinal cord injuries. These injuries can be prevented by maintaining a healthy weight, exercising regularly, strengthening back and core muscles, maintaining proper posture, and being cautious when twisting or rotating the neck. A healthy, nutritious diet helps strengthen bones.

Phi Hong

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