Dealing with neck pain and headaches can be a frustrating experience that disrupts our daily lives. In many cases, these symptoms can be attributed to cervical sprain and strain, common conditions that affect the neck. Fortunately, with proper treatment, most individuals can fully recover from these conditions and find relief.
Cervical sprain and strain refer to different types of injuries that affect the neck. A cervical sprain occurs when the ligaments in the neck are stretched or torn, while a cervical strain involves the overstretching or tearing of the neck muscles. Dr. Sunil Dachepalli, a Senior Consultant Orthopaedic, Robotic Joint Replacement and Arthroscopic Surgeon at Yashoda Hospitals in Hyderabad, sheds light on cervical sprain, its symptoms, and treatment.
According to Dr. Dachepalli, cervical strain is a common musculoskeletal problem that occurs when the muscle-tendon unit in the neck is subjected to excessive force, resulting in an overload injury. This injury leads to swelling, bleeding, inflammation, and elongation or tearing of the muscles or ligaments in the neck.
Various conditions can be considered differential diagnoses for cervical spine injuries, including cervical spine fracture, carotid artery dissection, herniated disc, spinal cord damage, dislocation of the cervical spine, muscle strain, facet injury, and ligamentous injury, as outlined in a study published by StatPearls.
Common symptoms associated with cervical strain include neck pain, headaches, shoulder, scapular, and/or arm pain, visual disturbances (such as blurred vision and diplopia), tinnitus, dizziness, concussion, neurological symptoms, difficulty sleeping due to pain, and disturbed concentration and memory.
The main cause of cervical strain injuries is often traffic crashes, which subject the neck to indirect trauma through a back-and-forth whipping motion of the head. This mechanism is commonly referred to as “whiplash” and is the leading cause of neck injuries in collisions. Other causes of neck sprains include poor posture, lifting heavy objects, falling, worn joints, nerve compression, and injuries. Pain associated with cervical strain typically worsens with neck movements.
When it comes to treatment, early rehabilitation and the use of radiography to assess cervical sprain and strain can be beneficial. Passive techniques, such as applying heat, cold, electrical stimulation, massage, myofascial release, and cervical traction, can provide relief. Active treatments may involve exercises aimed at improving strength, endurance, flexibility, posture, and body mechanics. Specific neck exercises targeting chronic neck pain, including activation of deep neck muscles and dynamic strengthening, can significantly improve disability scores. Occupational therapy may not be necessary unless the difficulty is caused by an ergonomic issue or a distal upper-extremity function. In severe cases of cervical strain, surgical intervention may be required, such as discectomy/fusion, especially if cervical instability is present.
It is important to note that the information provided in this article is general in nature and should not replace personalized medical advice. If you are experiencing neck pain or headaches, it is recommended to consult with a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment based on your specific needs.
In conclusion, cervical sprain and strain can cause significant discomfort and disruption in our lives. However, with proper treatment and management, individuals can recover fully and regain their quality of life. Seeking medical guidance is crucial to determine the underlying cause of neck pain and headaches and to receive tailored treatment that addresses individual needs.
