Neck trauma ranges from minor soft-tissue sprain to life-threatening vascular or airway injury. Clinical findings vary by mechanism (blunt vs. penetrating) and the structures involved, but the following features are characteristic. Local pain and tendernessPain is almost universal, usually originating in the nuchal muscles or paraspinal region; palpation reveals focal tenderness and voluntary guarding. In whiplash-associated disorders, discomfort often begins hours after the impact and is accompanied by stiffness. Restricted motionPatients instinctively hold the head in a neutral or slightly flexed position; active rotation or extension increases pain and may be limited by muscle spasm. Neurological deficitsRadiculopathy produces unilateral arm... Learn more