The cervical spine begins at the base of the skull and contains seven vertebrae and eight pairs of cervical nerves. The cervical spine is designed to protect the spinal cord and support the skull. Sports accidents, according to MayoClinic.com, account for 8 percent of all cervical spine injuries in the United States. Fractures, dislocation, ligament or disc injury are common cervical spine injuries that are associated with various types of sports, including weight lifting.
Causes
When lifting weights sometimes spinal cord injuries can happen due to lack of experience, proper technique and not stretching before exercising. If you lift too much weight above your head while you are training it can cause a fracture or dislocation of the cervical vertebrae as it pushes the head and upper body down onto the spine.
Diagnosis
The first thing a physician will do to when diagnosing a cervical spine injury is to check that you can move your fingers and toes. This will help the doctor to determine the status of your neurological system. X-rays of the injured area are taken to diagnose the effects of the injury on the bones. An MRI is also performed to diagnose the extent to which the ligaments and discs have been injured. The doctor can then determine the best course of action to take.
Treatment
Treatment for a cervical spine injury from weight lifting begins at the scene. The head and neck are stabilized to avoid further damage. Once a physician has assessed the injury he can determine the course of treatment. The treatment may involve prescription medications that contain an anti-inflammatory and pain relieving agents as well as immobilization until the injury has healed. You may be required to attend physical therapy and be given exercises to do to increase mobility and strength.
Prevention
To prevent cervical spine injuries while lifting weights several things must be done. First, only return to your regular training routine once your doctor has approved it and take caution to start slow with light lifting. Stretching and proper form are also important in preventing this type of injury as they can help you to prepare your back, neck and head for exertion.
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