Neck Sprains Caused by Car Accidents
Car accidents often result in neck sprains. Neck sprains occur when ligaments in the neck are stretched or torn. In a car accident, the neck sprain occurs as the result of the sudden acceleration and deceleration of the body causing hyperextension and hyperflexion of the neck.
Neck sprain symptoms include the following:
- Neck pain that gets worse with movement;
- Neck pain that is not fully felt immediately following the car accident, but which worsens over time and peaks within a few days of the accident;
- Pain and muscle spasms in the upper shoulders;
- Headache;
- Stiffness and decreased range of motion;
- Weakness or numbness in the hands or arms;
- Fatigue, difficulty sleeping or concentrating, and irritability;
Neck sprains caused by car accidents may be treated in the following ways:
- Prescription and non-prescription pain-killers, muscle relaxants, and other medications used to decrease swelling;
- Ice packs and heat packs;
- Massage;
- Ultrasound treatment;
- Cervical traction or the use of a cervical collar to relieve pressure on the neck;
- Selected exercises and physical therapy;
Although many neck sprains heal within several weeks, severe neck sprains, such as those sustained in a serious car accident, take much longer to heal.
For further information, see discussion of whiplash neck injuries.
