Cervical dislocation is the displacement of one or more cervical vertebrae, caused by blunt force trauma. It threatens the spinal cord and requires immediate medical attention. Men aged 15-24 experience the majority of severe cases, while falls and degenerative diseases are the leading cause in those aged 55+. Treatment options vary depending on the severity of the injury.
A cervical dislocation is the displacement of one or more of the seven cervical vertebrae in the neck. Most cervical dislocations are caused by blunt force trauma, such as an automobile accident or sports injury. Dislocation occurs when a cervical ligament is torn and one or more small bones that support the spine are displaced from its position in the spine. Cervical dislocation is commonly referred to as a “neck break” or “spinal snap,” but these phrases more accurately describe the break or fracture of a cervical bone — a cervical fracture, rather than a true dislocation. While a cervical fracture is generally a more serious medical injury than a cervical dislocation, a dislocation injury threatens the spinal cord and requires immediate medical attention to avoid internal damage.
Men between the ages of 15 and 24 experience the vast majority of severe cervical dislocation injuries, with the majority of injuries caused by contact sports, violent acts, and motor vehicle accidents. In the elderly, 55 years and older, accidental falls and degenerative diseases, such as rheumatoid arthritis, are the leading cause of injury. Patients with a mild case of cervical dislocation may experience neck pain, limited neck motion, and weakened muscles. A more severe case causes difficulty breathing, lack of muscle coordination and paralysis. Extensive damage to the nerves of the spine, particularly related to dislocation of the first and second vertebrae in the cervical spine, can cause permanent paralysis or death.
Immediate medical treatment for any neck injury is essential. In a cervical dislocation, the torn ligaments cannot support the vertebrae in the cervical spine, causing one or more bones to move out of position. The bone can press against sensitive nerves in the spine, or the movement of the vertebra can cause soft, gel-filled sacs called discs to protrude out of place. Bulging discs, also called herniated discs, press against the spine. This causes severe pain to the patient and can lead to nerve damage or paralysis of parts of the body.
Most dislocation injuries can be treated. Patients with a minor dislocation injury are prescribed bed rest, pain relievers, and physical therapy to reduce pain until the ligament heals and the vertebra realigns. The patient can wear a soft cervical collar to keep the neck immobilized. More serious injuries may require skull traction, surgery, and internal traction. Cervical dislocation as a result of degenerative diseases may also require surgery to treat pain and prevent spinal cord damage.
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