The neck--the cervical region of the spine--is a very delicate part of the body. Many muscles, nerves, tendons and ligaments run through this region and are prone to injury. The Cleveland Clinic says overuse and sudden blows to the cervical region can injure the neck. Simple neck injuries due to poor posture and sleeping positions don't normally require medical attention. In most cases, these types of neck sprains can be treated with pain medication, heat therapy and rest. However, severe neck injuries caused by car accidents, sports injuries and degeneration of intervertebral discs require immediate medical care. Some of these common neck injuries are preventable with the right precautions.
Whiplash
Whiplash is also known as a hyperextension of the neck in the forward and backward direction. It usually occurs during a rear-impact car collision. This type of accident causes the driver or passenger to suddenly jerk forward and backward. As stated by MayoClinic.com, the intense movements of the head cause the delicate ligaments and tendons of the neck to stretch beyond their given limits. Whiplash neck injuries can lead to a severe headache, neck pain, fatigue and dizziness. Contact sports, falls and physical assault can also cause whiplash.
Nerve Compression
Nerve compression in the neck, also called cervical root compression, is caused by the degeneration of one or more of the seven cervical intervertebral discs. The cartilaginous discs can deteriorate due to age, weight bearing and disease. As the intervertebral discs degenerate, spaces between the vertebrae are reduced. This leads to compression of the nerves that pass through the vertebrae at the neck. According to the UCLA Health Center, cervical nerve compression can be distinguished by symptoms such as tingling, numbing and a burning sensation in the neck, because many of the nerves are rooted in the cervical region.
Neck Fractures
Fractures of the cervical vertebrae are serious neck injuries that require immediate medical attention. Aurora Health Care says fractures of the neck can damage the spinal cord and lead to paralysis, even death. Neck fractures commonly occur in football players because of improper blocking techniques. Blocking with the head down puts immense pressure on the neck, resulting in one of the vertebra giving way and fracturing under the pressure. In elderly people, the cervical vertebra and adjoining muscles, tendons and ligaments become even more fragile; any type of trauma to the upper regions of the body can induce neck fractures. In both cases, the force and point of impact can determine the severity of the fracture.
