A neck fracture is a break in one or more of the cervical bones (vertebrae in the neck). The vertebrae are the bones that make up the spine.

A neck fracture is very serious and can lead to paralysis or possibly death. A person with a neck injury should not be moved without competent medical care, which is needed immediately.

It is important to recognize the possibility of a neck fracture. Injuries severe enough to cause head injury or other trauma often also cause neck fracture.

A neck fracture is caused by severe trauma to the neck. Trauma includes:

• Falls , such as from a horse or bike
• Collisions, such as motorcycle or automobile
• Diving into shallow water
• Severe and sudden twist to the neck
• Severe blows to the head or neck area

A risk factor is something that increases your chance of getting a disease, condition, or injury. Risk factors for a neck fracture include:

• Advancing age
• Decreased muscle mass
• Osteoporosis
• Certain contact sports, such as football or soccer
• Violence
• Not wearing your seatbelt when driving in a car
• Head injury or other traumatic injury such as severe chest trauma, pelvis or femur fractures

Symptoms include:

• Pain, which may or may not be severe
• Swelling and bruising
• Tenderness
• Decreased feeling in the arms or legs
• Muscle weakness or paralysis of the arms or legs

The doctor will ask about your symptoms, physical activity, and how the injury occurred, and will examine the injured area.

Tests may include:

• X-rays —a test that uses radiation to take a picture of structures inside the body, especially bones. It is used to look for a break in the bone or a dislocation of the vertebra.
• MRI scan —a test that uses a strong magnetic field and radio waves to make pictures of structures inside the neck and back. An MRI provides cross-sectional images that allow the doctor to see if there is damage to the spinal cord.
• CT scan —a type of x-ray that uses computers to make pictures of structures inside the neck and back. It can be used to analyze bone injury and to see if the spinal cord is compressed by a collection of blood.

Treatment depends on:

• The severity of the fracture
• If there is an associated dislocation or instability
• Which cervical bones are broken
• Whether there is spinal cord or nerve injury, with muscle weakness or paralysis

Treatment includes:

When there is a possibility of a broken neck, complete immobilization of the neck area is necessary. For athletes, it is recommended to keep the helmet and shoulder pads on while immobilizing the spine.

A less serious neck fracture can be treated with a cervical brace or collar. It will need to be worn until the neck completely heals, usually 8 to 12 weeks. The doctor may recommend medications to reduce pain and swelling.

For a more severe fracture, you may need surgery to realign the bones. Your neck may be placed in traction prior to surgery. A metal plate with screws, or other methods of fixation, may be used to help hold the bones in place.

When your doctor decides you are ready, start range-of-motion and strengthening exercises. A physical therapist should assist you with these exercises. Talk with your doctor before returning to any type of physical activity, and about lifting restrictions and other precautions.

You may need to wear a neck splint, spinal brace, or surgical collar for many months. The period of rehabilitation can last many months and even years.

A neck fracture can sometimes result in spinal cord and nerve injury and paralysis. This may require major life changes, involving work, family, and social life. Extensive rehabilitation may be required, including physical and occupational therapy, and psychological support.