Neck Injury After Basketball: When to See a Doctor?

Neck issues

A few days ago, while playing basketball, I jumped and got hit by someone, causing my head to tilt backward in the air.
I heard a cracking sound from my neck, and afterward, I felt some stiffness in my neck.
By the evening, I started experiencing dizziness, and it has persisted for several days.
Should I see a doctor? Which specialty should I consult?

Huang Shao'en, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2023/10/10

Dr. Jiang Junyi reply Neurology

Dear Mr.
Huang,
You mentioned that "I started feeling dizzy in the evening, and it has persisted for several days." I apologize for the delay in my response.
Your symptoms may suggest a possible muscle injury in the cervical spine.
If you experience any ischemic neurological symptoms such as dizziness, vertigo, ataxia, dysarthria, or visual changes, it may be necessary to consider vertebral artery injury.
If your symptoms continue without improvement, I recommend consulting a neurosurgeon for further evaluation and treatment.
Thank you for your inquiry, and feel free to discuss further.
Wishing you good health, peace, and joy.
Dr.
Jiang Junyi, Tao Medical Center, is concerned about you.

Reply Date: 2023/10/10

More Info

When it comes to neck injuries sustained during sports activities like basketball, it is crucial to pay attention to the symptoms that follow the incident. In your case, you mentioned that after jumping and being hit by another player, your neck made a cracking sound, and you subsequently experienced difficulty turning your neck smoothly, along with dizziness that has persisted for several days. Given these symptoms, it is advisable to seek medical attention.

Why You Should See a Doctor
1. Persistent Dizziness: Dizziness can be a sign of various underlying issues, including concussions or cervical spine injuries. Given that you experienced a sudden change in your neck's mobility and subsequent dizziness, it is essential to have a healthcare professional evaluate your condition.

2. Neck Mobility Issues: Difficulty in turning your neck smoothly can indicate a strain, sprain, or even a more serious injury to the cervical spine. These types of injuries can sometimes lead to complications if not addressed promptly.

3. Cracking Sound: The cracking sound you heard could be related to the movement of joints or ligaments in the neck. However, if it was accompanied by pain or discomfort, it could indicate a more serious injury that requires further investigation.

What Type of Doctor to See
For your symptoms, you should consider seeing a neurologist or an orthopedic specialist who focuses on spine injuries. These specialists can conduct a thorough examination, which may include physical assessments and imaging studies like X-rays or MRIs to determine the extent of any injury.

Potential Diagnostic Tests
- X-rays: These can help identify any fractures or dislocations in the cervical spine.

- MRI: This imaging technique provides a detailed view of soft tissues, including discs and nerves, which can help diagnose conditions like herniated discs or nerve compression.

- CT Scan: In some cases, a CT scan may be recommended for a more detailed view of the bony structures of the neck.

When to Seek Immediate Care
If you experience any of the following symptoms, you should seek immediate medical attention:
- Severe headache
- Numbness or tingling in the arms or legs
- Weakness in the limbs
- Loss of coordination
- Difficulty speaking or swallowing
- Changes in vision

Conclusion
In summary, given your symptoms of persistent dizziness and neck mobility issues following a basketball injury, it is essential to see a doctor for a thorough evaluation. Early intervention can help prevent potential complications and ensure a proper recovery. Remember, your health and safety should always come first, especially when it comes to injuries involving the neck and head. Don't hesitate to seek medical advice; it's better to be cautious in these situations.

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