1. Use the PRICEMM Method
You'll find the protection, rest, ice, compression, elevation, medication and modalities (PRICEMM) method is favored by most doctors for treating the symptoms of mild to moderate fractures of the neck. The PRICEMM method can be used to treat stress fractures, although it works best on compression fractures.
With this method, you'll use crutches to protect your neck from the weight stresses created by walking. You should get plenty of rest and stay off of your feet as much as possible. While you rest, place ice packs on your neck to relieve inflammation, and compress the packs with mild pressure to alleviate pain. Keep your neck elevated while maintaining a resting position and using pain relievers. Comply with any other treatments prescribed by your doctor, which will vary depending on your individual circumstances.
2. Consider Surgery
Though less severe fractures may be treated with the PRICEMM method, stress fractures of the neck are commonly treated with surgery. This involves placing surgical pins in the patient's neck to hold the vertebrae steady and stop the fractures from getting worse. Your doctor may or may not remove these pins once the fractures have healed, depending on the placement of the pins and how well you heal. The primary goal of surgery is to give the your neck the stability it needs to heal.
3. Use Vitamin Supplementation
Vitamin supplementation, particularly with calcium and Vitamin D, can strengthen your bones to heal your neck fracture more quickly. Taken together, these two vitamins will also decrease the likelihood you'll suffer future fractures because your bones will be stronger. Calcium can be taken in pill, liquid or "soft chew" form, while Vitamin D is best obtained through 10 to 15 minutes of daily exposure to direct sunlight. However, it too can be taken in pill form, and you'll find it at your local health food store or pharmacy.
