A neck sprain can occur when the neck is bent beyond its normal limits. In many cases, the injury results from a sudden movement that happens during a fall or car accident. The abrupt force can overstretch or tear one of the strong ligaments that support the vertebrae in the cervical spine. These strong bands of tissue function like large rubber bands, holding the bones together and stabilizing the neck.

If you have pain, stiffness, or muscle spasms in your neck, you can have your injury evaluated and treated at Premier Bone & Joint Centers in Torrington. After examining your neck, discussing the circumstances of your injury, and measuring your range of motion, our board-certified, fellowship-trained physicians can pinpoint the source of your discomfort. The diagnostic process may include X-rays to help your physician rule out other common causes of neck pain, such as arthritis and spinal fractures. Once we finalize your diagnosis, we can suggest a treatment plan to help you feel better as your recover.

How Is a Neck Sprain Treated?

All sprains are treated in much the same way, regardless of the part of the body affected. Given time and appropriate treatment, this type of injury usually heals gradually within several weeks.

In the meantime, to help support your head and alleviate the pressure on the injured ligament in your neck, we may suggest that you wear a cervical collar. During the first few days, you can also apply an ice pack to the painful area of your neck as needed to improve your comfort. Additionally, medications such as pain relievers and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can help reduce inflammation, and a muscle relaxant may ease painful spasms.

Other neck sprain treatment options include:

• Therapeutic massage
• Ultrasound therapy
• Cervical traction
• Aerobic and isometric exercises
• Anesthetic injections

If you think you might have a neck sprain, you can receive an accurate diagnosis and prompt treatment from the team at Premier Bone & Joint Centers. Contact us today to request an appointment with a neck doctor at our satellite clinic in Torrington, WY.