Neck and Back Injuries

Did you know - Around 65% of the working population in India reported some form of back discomfort. (Times of India)

The number of neck and back issues are rising, and various factors like sedentary lifestyle, lack of physical activities, obesity, etc can all be counted as contributing factors. The young are now getting impacted by problems that were earlier believed to be affecting the elderly. Another factor adding significantly to this number is injury of the neck and back. Whether caused by poor posture, accidents, or underlying medical conditions, these injuries require proper attention and care to prevent long-term complications.

Neck and back injury can be characterised as damage to the:

• Muscles
• Ligaments
• Nerves
• Bones
• Discs

that occur in the cervical (neck) and thoracic/lumbar (back) regions of the spine. Neck and spine injuries can range from mild strains to severe conditions affecting mobility. 

Common Back Injuries

• Muscle Strains & Ligament Sprains: This can be caused due to various factors including, poor posture, heavy lifting, sudden movements etc. Individuals suffering from muscle strains and ligament sprains may experience pain, stiffness, muscle spasm, etc.

• Spinal Fracture: Spinal fractures can be caused by falls, accidents, osteoporosis (weakening the bones), etc. The fracture results in the breaking of vertebrae leading to severe pain, loss of height, etc.

• Herniated Lumbar Disc: Herniated disc refers to bulging of a spinal disc due to repetitive strain, incorrect lifting, agining, etc. Herniated lumbar disc can cause lower back pain, numbness, etc.

• Sciatica: Sciatic is the compression on the sciatica nerve due to a herniated disc, bone spur, or spinal stenosis. Sciatica can cause sharp burning pain, weakness in the legs, etc.

Common Neck Injuries

• Muscle Strains & Ligament Sprains: This can be caused due to various factors including, poor posture, heavy lifting, sudden movements etc. Individuals suffering from muscle strains and ligament sprains may experience pain, stiffness, muscle spasm, etc.

• Spinal Fracture: Spinal fractures can be caused by falls, accidents, osteoporosis (weakening the bones), etc. The fracture results in the breaking of vertebrae leading to severe pain, loss of height, etc.

• Herniated Lumbar Disc: Herniated disc refers to bulging of a spinal disc due to repetitive strain, incorrect lifting, agining, etc. Herniated lumbar disc can cause lower back pain, numbness, etc.

• Sciatica: Sciatic is the compression on the sciatica nerve due to a herniated disc, bone spur, or spinal stenosis. Sciatica can cause sharp burning pain, weakness in the legs, etc.

What Causes Neck and Back Injuries?

• Poor Posture: Various factors like sitting for long hours, improper ergonomics, slouching while sitting or standing, or using an unsupported mattress or pillow may gradually cause pain and discomfort. 

• Trauma or Accident: Severe injuries to the neck and back like car accidents, falls, and sports-related injuries can significantly affect the spine, causing severe pain & discomfort.

• Spinal Disorders: Conditions like disc herniation, natural wear & tear of spinal joints (osteoarthritis), spinal stenosis, and other spinal conditions are contributing factors leading to neck and back injuries.

• Repetitive Strain & Overuse: Injuries are commonly caused by repetitive strain through lifting improperly, repetitive bending or twisting, strenuous physical activity, etc.

Symptoms of Neck Injuries

• Severe Neck Pain: Neck injuries can cause mild to severe neck pain, the severity depends on the injury.
• Headache: In some cases, neck injury can lead to headaches, often originating from the base of the skull.
• Shoulder & Upper Back Pain:The pain around the neck gradually radiates to the nearby muscles specifically around the shoulder and upper back.
• Dizziness or Vertigo: Neck injury may cause nerve compression leading to dizziness or vertigo. 

How are Neck and Back Injuries Diagnosed?

An Orthopedician can perform a physical examination to diagnose neck and back injuries. The expert can perform a physical examination, comprehend the symptoms and suggest certain imaging tests to determine the location, nature and severity of the issue.  In order to diagnose neck and back issues some imaging tests are frequently used. Some of the commonly used imaging tests to diagnose spinal stenosis are,

Full Spine X-ray: Provides a basic view of the spine to help identify bone spurs, fractures, etc.
MRI: Gives a detailed image of the soft tissues, disk, ligaments, nerves, etc.
CT Scan: Helps create 2D images of the spine & highlights narrowing in the spinal canal.
Electromyography: To evaluate nerve function and detect abnormalities.

Treatments for Neck and Back Injuries

The severity of the injury and the symptoms determine how neck and back injuries are treated. There are both non-surgical and surgical approaches to treating injuries. Before suggesting an invasive treatment method specialists typically suggest a non-surgical approach.

Non-surgical Treatment: Conservative treatment methods involve resting and activity modification. Additionally, over the counter medicines and muscle relaxants can be used for pain management. Physical therapy is another non-surgical treatment option for regaining range of motion and strength. In certain situations braces and neck collars may be recommended by doctors to prevent the pain from getting worse or the condition from getting worse.

Surgical Treatment: The necessity of surgery is determined by the severity of the symptoms. Surgical procedures are the recommended course of action when non-surgical treatments are insufficient to alleviate the symptoms. Some of the commonly used surgical treatment methods involve discectomy, spinal fusion, and laminectomy. 

Tips to Prevent Neck and Back Injuries

Tips	Description
Maintain Right Posture	Keep the spine aligned while sitting, standing, and walking.
Use Ergonomic Support	Adjust chair, desk, and monitor; opt for lumbar and neck support.
Lift Appropriately	While lifting, use proper equipment & maintain the right posture.
Stay Physically Active	Strengthen core & neck muscles to support the spine.
Adopt a Healthy Sleep Position	Use a firm mattress and supportive pillow to maintain spinal alignment.

Warning Signs that require immediate Medical Attention

• Severe or Persistent Pain: Pain that doesn’t get better with rest.
• Loss of Bladder Control:This can be a sign of severe spinal cord compression.
• Numbness or Tingling:Sensations in the arms, and legs can intricate nerve damage.
• Pain after Trauma:Injury after accidents, or falls requires immediate attention.

Benefits of Physiotherapy for Neck and Back Injuries

• Reduces Pain: Targeted exercises & stretching help reduce pain.
• Strengthens Muscles: Strengthened back & neck muscles help support the spine.
• Enhances Recovery: Speeds up healing & reduces the need for surgery or medication.
• Improves Mobility & Flexibility: Helps restore movement & prevents stiffness. 
• Prevent Recurrence: Corrects posture & movement patterns to avoid future injuries.

Importance of Early Diagnosis & Treatment of Neck & Back Injuries