Neck Injuries

Next to sudden death and related disorders, neck injuries are probably the biggest nightmare for Athletic Trainers and also for athletes and parents. While neck injuries can occur in any sport, football is biggest concern. When the head is lowered and the top of the helmet is used as a weapon or a protective tool, the neck is very susceptible to injury in this position. When the head is up during contact the chances of injuring the cervical spine is decreased and now the muscles of the neck can absorb the forces that occur during the collision. Athletes need to work on proper technique used in tackling and blocking as well as condition the neck and surrounding musculature to reduce and hopefully prevent injury around this area which is so important to our normal functionality and life in general.

Technique Prevention

  • Have someone instruct you on proper technique on tackling and blocking. If your coaches are not teaching request that this technique is taught to you properly.
  • Work on the basics everyday and rehearse in your brain before practices and events.
  • Observe team-mates and notify them or a coach of improper technique.
  • Do not fall into the trap of watching your favorite athlete on TV, the majority of NFL players do not use proper technique and mimicking them could be very dangerous. Try to find the "good" tacklers and blockers during games.

Strengthening and Conditioning for Prevention

  • Overall strengthening and conditioning will reduce your overall chances of injury, regardless of the location. Research has demonstrated this over again, and again...
  • Making sure that you strengthening the neck region and surrounding musculature should be a priority to collision athletes, especially football.
  • Physical condition: making sure that you are in top form before the season starts is a must. Athletes that fatigue in the last portion of the game or practice will use technique that is more "sloppy" and will put themselves at risk of injury. This is why practicing technique is a must so these skills will be automatic despite fatigue.

For Information: The following links have been provided for easy access to further information