1. Call 911 ASAP
If you suspect that you have broken your neck, you should call 911 immediately. You can never really be sure if you have a complete break or a fracture, but any broken neck can be extremely dangerous because it could lead to paralysis or other complications. Explain to the emergency team how the neck injury occurred, a description of the pain, any symptoms such as dizziness, vomiting and bleeding, and how long ago the accident happened. You should also tell them if you moved from the site of the accident or simply from one position to the other. If you suspect that you have broken your neck, lie in one position and do not move. Movement can cause paralysis.
2. X-rays and Other Diagnostic Testing
If you have a broken neck, you need to undergo diagnostic testing such as x-rays, CT scan, MRI or other medical testing that could determine the severity of the break. It is important that you complete these tests so that a doctor can properly diagnose your neck condition.
3. Immobilization and Medications
You will need to wear an immobilization device until your neck heals. This could be a neck brace that keeps your head from turning and moving or it could be something more complicated such as a body cast. You will need to immobilize your neck and head during the recovery to prevent the break from becoming worse or to avoid paralysis. The doctor will also prescribe some anti-inflammatory and pain medications to take.
4. Attend Physical Therapy
Sometimes a doctor will send a patient who has had a neck injury to physical therapy. Physical therapy is important for rebuilding muscles and strength in the neck area. You will learn to do some neck exercises that you can do while at home that will increase healing.
5. Caring For Your Neck After Injury
After your broken neck has healed, you may have times when your neck feels achy. This is normal, especially for the first few months after removal of your brace or cast. If you experience pain, you can take over-the-counter pain medications and lay on a heating pad. If the pain does not go away within a few days, you should go see your doctor again and tell him about the continued pain.
