Cervical Spine (C-spine)

The C-spine supports the weight of the head. It runs from the base of your skull to the upper back. It consists of seven vertebrae (C1-C7) which protect the spinal cord and nerves. There are disks between each vertebra. The bones of the spine are connected by many ligaments that provide support to the head and neck.

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Cervical Spine Injury

A cervical spine injury can happen when a great amount of force is placed against the spinal column. An injury can happen if the spinal column is not strong enough to stand up to that force. Injury can occur to the vertebrae, disks, or the cord. This can cause pain, numbness, weakness, and tingling. Symptoms vary in each person.

Types of Injuries

  • Bone fractures

  • Ligament injuries

Tests Needed

  • X-rays look at the bones in your spine.

  • A CT uses x-rays to get detailed pictures of bones and other tissues.

  • An MRI gives us a detailed picture of ligaments, spinal cord, and nerves.

  • A physical exam will also check your cervical spine to see if you have pain when pressure is applied or with movement.

Treatment

First, the spine must be stabilized with a neck collar. The Philadelphia (Philly) collar, a rigid collar, is put in place right after any trauma. If you have a cervical spine injury, you will be seen by a spine doctor. The spine doctor will decide if your cervical spine injury needs surgery or can be treated with a cervical collar. They may decide to change from the Philly collar to a PMT collar. The PMT collar ensures your neck remains in a stable position to allow your cervical spine injury to heal.

If you remain in a collar, you must wear it at all times. Your doctors will decide how many weeks you will need to wear it. You will also need to wear the collar if you have a ligament injury. Sometimes, if the x-rays do not show damage but you still have neck pain, you will go home in the collar. You will need x-rays taken again in the clinic in 2 weeks.

What to Expect in the Hospital

You will need to lie flat in bed to keep your spine aligned until a brace has been placed. This can be uncomfortable, but you need to do this to protect your spine. To turn in bed, you must be rolled by the nursing staff. This is called “log rolling”. It allows you to be turned while keeping your spine aligned.

You may not be able to eat anything until your doctor decides if you have a spine injury. This can take up to 24 hours. This is in case you need to have surgery. If you need surgery, you will not be allowed to eat. We will give you fluids through your IV to keep you hydrated.

You will not be able to use a pillow. Your spine does not stay aligned when you use a pillow. If you use a pillow, it can cause further damage.