3 Sports Injuries That Can Cause Neck Pain

If you’re an athlete or sports enthusiast, you’re probably familiar with the discomfort of neck pain. While it’s easy to dismiss neck pain as resulting from overworked muscles or typical physical exertion, it can also be a precursor to more severe health issues.

Athletes often push their bodies to the limits in sports, and injuries that cause neck pain shouldn’t be overlooked. Whether it’s a sharp jolt after being tackled on a football field or a dull ache from a bad golf swing, any neck injury can have long-lasting consequences. 

Our team at The Woodlands Sports Medicine Centre in The Woodlands and Conroe, Texas, specialize in spine and orthopedic care. Their extensive experience in diagnosing and treating the root cause of your neck pain helps you return to your favorite activities confidently and safely.

Here, he outlines three of the most common sports injuries that can cause neck pain.

Whiplash in contact sports

The most common cause of whiplash is car accidents, but it’s also prevalent in contact sports like football and rugby. Whiplash occurs when your head suddenly jerks forward and backward, straining your neck muscles and ligaments.

Symptoms of whiplash include:

• Neck pain and stiffness
• Headaches at the base of the skull
• Dizziness
• Blurred vision or memory problems

Ignoring these symptoms can lead to chronic pain, mobility issues, and even long-term neurological issues.

Treatment and prevention

Early intervention is critical to recovering from whiplash. Our team has a range of treatment options, from medication to physical therapy, depending on the severity of your injury. To prevent whiplash, do exercises to strengthen your neck muscles and always wear appropriate protective gear.

Cervical disc injury in gymnastics and diving

Your spine can be particularly vulnerable in sports such as gymnastics and diving, which require your spine to flex and extend repeatedly. A cervical disc injury occurs when the intervertebral discs in your neck are compressed or damaged.

With this injury, you may experience sharp or burning pain, numbness, or weakness in your neck, arms, or shoulders. These symptoms could suggest nerve damage or even spinal cord compression, which requires immediate medical attention.

Treatment and prevention

Using proper sports techniques to prevent cervical disc injuries is crucial. Treatment options may include physical therapy, medication, or, in severe cases, surgery to relieve your pain and get you back to the sport you love.

Muscle strain in overhead sports

Sports that involve repetitive overhead motions, such as tennis or baseball, can cause neck muscle strain. Overusing your neck muscles or improper form can also cause strain, leading to pain and stiffness.

Symptoms of muscle strain include soreness, reduced neck mobility, and pain when you turn your head. Chronic strains can lead to more severe conditions if not appropriately addressed.

Treatment and prevention

Our team offers treatment plans that may include rest, ice, physical therapy, or targeted exercises to strengthen your neck muscles. Educating yourself on proper warm-up routines and techniques is also crucial to prevent these injuries.

If you play sports and suddenly develop neck pain, don’t ignore it. A dull ache or sharp pain could develop into a severe and debilitating condition with time. Schedule an appointment with us online or call us today to get back to your active lifestyle.