Hit at a dead spot, extreme burning in upper spine and neck. Unable to tilt head and intermittent nerve pains. Is it healing process?
Patient: Hi there, I recent was involved in a rear end collision, I was hit at a dead stop on the freeway at 50mph. I experienced extreme burning like someone lit a firecracker in my upper spine and neck after impact. It s been three weeks since and I am still unable to tilt my head either direction, I also am experiencing intermittent nerve pains in my extremities, spasms, weakness and fatigue In my upper body and constant pain in my neck and shoulders. There is also an awful crunching noise in my neck now that hasnt gone away. I had X-rays and they said everything was normal, but it definately doesn t feel like it! I m worried I might be permanently damaged! Im looking for the next step to take in this long healing process? Doctor: Hi,  Thank you for posting your query.  Based on your symptoms, we should exclude a diagnosis of central cord syndrome. In this condition, due to whip lash injury, the central parts of cervical spinal cord in injured, resulting in symptoms similar to what you have.  However, it is reassuring to note that symptoms improve with medical treatment and surgery is not required.  MRI of cervical spine may be done to confirm the diagnosis.  Pregabalin capsules may be taken for symptom relief.  Please get back if you require any additional information.  Best wishes,  Dr Sudhir Kumar MD (Internal Medicine), DM (Neurology) Senior Consultant Neurologist Apollo Hospitals, Hyderabad, My personal URL on this website:  http://bit.ly/Dr-Sudhir-kumar  My email: drsudhirkumar@yahoo.com