Sports-related trauma places significant stress on the cervical spine, sometimes resulting in a serious neck injury that affects mobility, performance, and long-term health. When conservative treatments are no longer effective, orthopedic surgery may play a key role in restoring stability and preventing further damage. Here’s a closer look at the role of orthopedic surgery in sports-related neck injuries:
What Causes Neck Injuries?
High-impact sports frequently result in necks being forced into unnatural positions or subjected to intense forces. Athletes often experience collisions that compress the cervical spine, which can lead to potential nerve damage or fractures. Sports like soccer, wrestling, and rugby involve sudden twists or direct blows that can strain muscles and ligaments beyond their normal range. These dynamic movements impose significant stress on the cervical vertebrae, which may lead to neck injury. Whiplash is another common injury in contact sports, where the head is rapidly jerked back and forth due to impact.
How Is Injury Evaluated?
An accurate diagnosis is the first step toward effective treatment of any neck injury, as it dictates the course of care. Here are ways specialists diagnose neck injuries:
- Physical Exam: A medical professional examines the area to check head and neck alignment, range of motion, and specific points of tenderness.
- Medical History: The doctor gathers details regarding past injuries, the mechanism of the current injury, and the duration and intensity of the pain.
- X-Rays: These images provide a clear view of the bones to reveal fractures, alignment issues, or arthritis.
- Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI): This imaging modality allows the physician to evaluate the spinal cord, nerves, bone marrow, and soft tissues, such as disks.
- Computed Tomography Scan (CT scan): This test is useful for detecting bone spurs and subtle bone deterioration.
These diagnostic tools allow the medical team to create a specific plan tailored to the athlete’s unique physiological needs.
When Is Surgery Needed?
Most neck injuries improve with non-surgical methods like physical therapy, medication, or injections. Some cases demand a surgical approach to prevent permanent damage. Here are reasons orthopedic specialists may recommend surgery for a neck injury:
- Failed Conservative Treatment: Surgery is recommended if pain and dysfunction persist after months of non-surgical treatments.
- Spinal Instability: Procedures are necessary when fractures or ligament damage cause the vertebrae to move abnormally, risking further injury.
- Nerve Compression: Surgery is required if pressure on the spinal cord or nerve roots causes weakness, numbness, or loss of function.
- Severe Fractures: Displaced or unstable fractures often require surgical fixation to make sure the bones heal in the correct alignment.
- Progressive Neurological Deficits: If a patient experiences worsening weakness or loss of coordination, immediate decompression surgery is often needed.
The primary goal of any surgical procedure is to relieve pain, restore stability, and prevent further damage to the spinal cord or nerve roots.
When Can Athletes Return?
Recovery timelines for a neck injury vary significantly depending on the specific procedure performed and the individual’s healing response. Physical therapy usually begins once the surgeon determines the spine is stable enough for movement and controlled exercise. This gradually introduces sport-specific movements to prepare the body for the demands of competition.
Athletes must follow a strict protocol before they return to play to make sure the injury has fully healed and the neck can withstand impact. This often involves clearing specific medical milestones. Rushing this process can lead to re-injury, hardware failure, or long-term complications that could end an athletic career.
Schedule Your Neck Injury Appointment
Neck injury in sports requires immediate and expert care to prevent long-term damage and aid a safe return to activity. Orthopedic surgery provides a solution for severe injuries that compromise the spine’s function, stability, or neurological health. For persistent neck pain from a sports injury, contact an orthopedic specialist near you to schedule your appointment today.
