What is a cervical spine ligament injury?
This injury occurs when your body sustains a rapid and forceful impact. This rapid movement pulls the ligaments that are around the spine. This movement causes injury to them. There are two types of injuries. The first one is called a strain. This is where the ligament is stretched, but not torn. You will have some pain and swelling. The other type is a tear. Each injury varies in how the ligament tears, but overall, this injury is more painful and serious. What tests will I need? • X-rays and a physical exam will be done to look for ligament injury. • In some cases, an MRI may be done. How is it treated? Based on your injury, you may • Be treated in a cervical collar. • Require surgery. • Need a halo vest to keep your head and shoulders steady and not moving. What should I expect while in the hospital? When you arrive at the hospital, you will be placed on spine precautions. A physical exam will be done. You will have X-rays. You may have CT scans or an MRI to check for spinal fractur
