Neck and head injuries can occur while you are exercising. The neck is the main support system for your head and skull. This region of your body can be susceptible to a large number of injuries as the result of falls, direct blows or improper mechanics while performing exercises. You may find yourself nursing a sprain, fracture or a concussion as the result of exercising. If you suspect you may have sustained a neck or head injury while exercising, discontinue exercise and contact your physician.
Neck Sprains
During exercise, a neck sprain is likely to occur as the result of a sudden wrong movement or overuse. Symptoms of a neck sprain include aches, stiffness, radiating pain to the shoulders or head and muscle spasms. If you believe you have a neck sprain, discontinue exercise and ice the affected area over the course of the next 48 hours -- ice for no more than 30 minutes each hour. If pain does not subside, seek the opinion of your physician. Your physician can perform a physical examination and imaging tests to help determine your diagnoses. To prevent neck sprains, practice proper mechanics while exercising and always stretch before beginning your exercise routine.
Neck Fractures
Neck fractures during exercise may be the result of a fall or sometimes improper mechanics. Symptoms of a neck fracture include stiffness, radiating or severe pain, the inability to move your extremities, muscle spasms, dizziness and headaches. If you believe you have sustained a neck fracture, seek medical treatment immediately. A fracture to the neck region can cause damage to your spinal cord or paralysis. Your doctor will perform a physical examination and imaging tests to determine if you have fractured your neck. Depending on the severity of your fracture, you are likely to be immobilized in a neck brace or undergo surgery to repair the fracture.
Skull Fractures
Skull fractures in exercise occur as the result or a fall or wearing improper equipment while biking or participating in contact sports -- not wearing a helmet. A skull fracture occurs when the skull cracks. If you experience nausea that will not subside, changes in behavior, dilated pupils, trouble performing everyday tasks, vomiting, seizures, extremity weakness or drainage of blood or a clear fluid from your nose or ears, seek medical attention immediately. A skull fracture will be examined by a physician and imaging test -- likely a CT scan -- will be performed to determine the severity of the fracture. Sometimes when a skull fractures, the bone cuts into your brain, which can cause bleeding in your brain. Surgery may be required if your brain bleeds. Otherwise, a skull fracture is treated with rest and pain medications.
Concussions
Concussions occur during exercise as the result of a fall on the head or a direct blow to your head. You may pass out for a short period of time if you experience a concussion. You may also feel dizzy or dazed and have poor balance, nausea or vomiting. You may or may not experience neck pain, ringing in your ears and have trouble concentrating or remembering things. In the days or weeks after your concussion, you may be upset, irritable, depressed, tired, anxious or have trouble sleeping. In severe cases, symptoms can last up to a year. If you think you have a concussion, your doctor may order imaging tests to rule out any further brain injury. You may also take a computerized test that monitors your cognitive skills. This test may be repeated multiple times until your physician is satisfied with your abilities. You will be advised to avoid exercise until your symptoms are gone.
