Injuries and Evaluation of the Neck and Spinal Cord Athletic Injury

Common Injuries The neck and spine are common places for injuries in athletes Common injuries and problems include Sprains Strains Contusions Burners/stringers Pinched nerves Trigger points More serious spinal injuries include Disc herniation Fractures Paralysis

Spinal Column Anatomy Review Bones Muscles and Ligaments Nerves

Sprains Both the neck and the spinal column have ligaments that connect bones to bones And over stretching of this ligaments are called sprains

Strains Muscle strains are very common in sports

Back Muscles

Back Muscles to Know Latissimus Dorsi Also known as the lats

Erector Spinae Muscles

Hip Flexors

Quadratus Lumborum Also known as the the QL

Contusions Bruises to bones and muscles are common

Burners and Stingers

Trigger Points Palpable nodules or knots in the muscle May cause pain without being touched (active) May only hurt when touched (latent) Typically causes pain the radiate or move to another location of the body

Disc Herniation

Fractures

Paralysis

How do we Evaluation Neck and Spine Injuries? When suspecting a fracture or dislocation always call 911 first Other than that, you evaluate them the same as other injuries History Observation Palpation Special Tests

Treatment Most neck and spinal injuries require rest as a treatment Re-aggravation of a muscle strain will prolong recovery Ice and heat are commonly used to help with pain and spasm Electrical stimulation is also used to treat pain The timeline varies

Ice Bag Activity Everyone get an ice bag Watch the demonstration on how to fill the bag of ice Watch the demonstration on how to remove air from the bag Practice!