Broken Neck
What is a Broken Neck?
A broken neck is a fracture or dislocation of the bones (vertebrae) of the neck. The neck is made up of seven vertebrae and when one or more of them is broken. It is a very serious medical condition and the patient should not normally be moved.
A broken neck does not necessarily mean that there is spinal cord damage or injury. However this can only be determined by a medical professional.
What causes a Broken Neck?
A neck fracture is normally caused by severe trauma to the neck. Examples include:
- Falls, such as from a horse or bike
- Collisions, such as motorcycle or automobile
- Diving into shallow water
- Severe and sudden twist to the neck
- Severe blows to the head or neck area
What are the symptoms of a Broken Neck?
A broken neck is usually caused by an accident or injury. The symptoms include:
- Neck pain, which may or may not be severe
- Difficulty breathing
- Swelling and bruising
- Tenderness
- Decreased feeling in the arms or legs
- Muscle weakness or paralysis of the arms or legs
What treatments are there for a Broken Neck?
If you suspect someone has a broken neck do NOT move them as this may cause more harm. Ring the emergency services on 999. Broken necks are delicate and need to be treated in the right way by a medical professional only.
After a patient is diagnosed with a broken neck, the doctor will have to determine the best treatment depending on the type of break. Surgery is often considered to treat a fractured back. The surgeon chooses the treatment method based on the severity of the fracture. For example, the fractured bones (vertebrae) may be fused to the healthy vertebrae next to it, or may be removed and replaced with a bone graft that is fused to the vertebrae on either side. Traction techniques may be used to help align the bones as they heal. Neck surgery is often complicated and the recovery process can be slow.
After full recovery, further rehabilitation treatment should be sought:
Rehabilitation Treatments
- Physiotherapy
- Occupational Therapy
- Orthopedic consultancy