HEAD, NECK & SPINE INJURIES


POTENTIALLY SERIOUS
  Signs / Symptoms  
 
• Athlete is unconscious for more than 15 seconds.
• Athlete experiences the inability to control movements, is unable to move or has numbness or tingling in any limb as a result of trauma.
 
  Treatment  
 

CALL 9-1-1

NEVER MOVE AN ATHLETE THAT IS UNCONSCIOUS OR IS SUSPECTED OF HAVING A HEAD/NECK/SPINE INJURY!!!
 

  
PREVENTION
 
• Make certain that all equipment fits properly and is worn properly.
• Increase strength and flexibility of neck and back muscles.
• Use proper technique always because the result of this type of injury is often paralysis. Mechanism of Injury: Lowering the head and striking an object with the top or crown (i.e. spearing or tossing an opponent onto their head).
 
COMMONLY ASSOCIATED WITH:
 
Football, wrestling
 
ADDITIONAL RESOURCES
 
American Academy of Orthopedic Surgery
Brain Injury Association
Wheeless Textbook of Orthopedics
 
   
It is extremely important to be able to recognize serious and/or life threatening injuries. These injuries are not always obvious therefore, we recommend that someone (i.e. a coach or team parent) become certified in Basic First Aide Procedures. The American Red Cross offers frequent courses in the procedures.