Injuries to the Cervical Spine

Injuries to the cervical spine result from trauma, but the trauma can be as simple as a minor fall to a major car accident. Symptoms of cervical spine injury include neck or arm pain, numbness or tingling in the arms, weakness in the arms or legs, or even paralysis. Diagnosis of the type of injury often requires tests such as X-rays, CT scans, MRI, or EMG (electromyography – electrical studies of the nerves). Many times, and depending on the result of tests, cervical spine injuries need no special treatment and will improve with time as part of the body’s natural healing process. Other treatments include physical therapy, pain management, and surgery.