Cervical Fracture

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The seven vertebrae located in the neck are known as the cervical vertebrae. If one of them is broken, it becomes a cervical fracture. This is an extremely serious and life threatening condition that usually results from some kind of trauma. A cervical fracture is an emergent condition that requires immediate attention and months of treatment afterwards.

How it Happens
Most frequently a cervical fracture is the result of a sudden trauma. For example, a severe car accident can eject a person from the vehicle and cause all kinds of severe injuries, including a cervical fracture. Additionally a fall from a high platform can also do it. People who dive into shallow areas and hit their heads on the bottom are very susceptible to this life threatening condition.

Treatment

A cervical fracture requires immediate attention. The neck will be immobilized, x-rays will be taken, and emergency crews will respond accordingly. The patient may experience temporary or even permanent paralysis when a cervical fracture has occurred.

Once the damaged vertebra is identified, doctors will proceed. If the fracture ...
... is only minor, a brace will be worn for 6 to 8 weeks. A more severe fracture will require a complex surgery (or several complex surgeries), traction, therapy and immobilization for 2 to 3 months.
Prevention

Is fairly easy to prevent a cervical fracture from occurring, especially if you are not an athlete that is exposed to the daily risks. When youre in your car, always wear your seat belt to keep your body in place.

Also, dont ever dive into a shallow area. This is especially true if you cant see the bottom because the water is murky. There is an extremely high risk of death when this scenario plays out. Generally the diver is knocked unconscious or rendered paralyzed and cant swim back to the surface. Subsequently they drown. However, its an easy thing to avoid. Just dont dive into shallow or murky water. Its as simple as that.

For athletes, most can avoid a cervical fracture by using the proper safety equipment. Even gymnasts who dont wear harnesses can be protected by having the proper cushioning mats and spotters in place.

Generally speaking awareness is the key to avoiding this debilitating condition. Just dont put yourself in the position where injury can occur and you should be fine. Constantly scan your surroundings and avoid potentially hazardous situations.

A cervical fracture is a terrible and life threatening injury. It can even have lifelong consequences including paralysis. Thats why awareness and prevention is vital to help you maintain a healthy cervical column.

The Healthy Back Institute strives to provide the latest information on achieving a healthy back. For more information on cervical fractures and their treatment, visit www.losethebackpain.com today.