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| Home > Spinal Disorders > Sprains/Fractures > Cervical Sprain - Disorder Treatment |
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CERVICAL SPRAIN / WHIPLASH
Disorder Treatment
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Non-surgical Treatment
All sprains or strains, no matter where they are located in the body, receive basically the same type of treatment. Usually, neck sprains, like other sprains, will gradually heal, given time and appropriate treatment. You may have to wear a soft cervical collar to help support the head and relieve pressure on the neck so the ligaments have time to heal. Analgesics, such as aspirin or ibuprofen, can help reduce the pain and any swelling. Muscle relaxants can help ease spasms. You can apply an ice pack for 15 to 30 minutes at a time, several times a day for the first two or three days after the injury. This will help reduce inflammation and discomfort. Although heat, particularly moist heat, can help loosen cramped muscles, it should not be applied too quickly. Other treatment options include massaging the tender area, ultrasound, cervical traction, aerobic and isometric exercise.
An early return to work is encouraged, even if your doctor must prescribe some temporary modifications in your work situation. As soon as possible, you should begin aerobic activities, such as walking or swimming. Most symptoms will resolve in four to six weeks. A severe injury, such as might be sustained in a motor vehicle accident, may take several months to hecompletely. Symptoms of arm weakness, numbness, or shooting pains should be explored further.
Surgical Treatment
Seldom does a neck sprain/strain require surgical intervention. Indications for surgery include, but are not limited to spinal cord dysfunction, excruciating pain unrelieved by conservative measures, and prolonged pain and/or weakness.
Surgery may be recommended if other conditions such as verterbral fracture or disc herniation result in chronic, debilitating pain.
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