Neck Sprain

A neck sprain overstretches one or more ligaments around the cervical vertebrae. The stress on the ligament can force the joints in your neck out of their normal positions. A neck strain involves the muscles or tendons in the neck.

Mild sprains tear some ligament fibers, but you still have function. A moderate sprain ruptures some of the ligaments and some fluid is lost. A moderate strain tears muscles or tendons and you lose strength. A severe sprain is a complete rupture of the ligament. A severe strain ruptures muscle and tendon attached to the vertebrae. These result in a full loss of function that may require surgery.

Symptoms of Neck Sprain/Strain include:

• decreased range of motion
• pain, soreness and stiffness
• a popping or tearing sensation in the neck
• muscle spasms and loss of strength
• tenderness