On-field issues of the C-spine-injured helmeted athlete.
Football is a violent collision sport and can lead to various serious injuries. Cervical spine injuries are numerous, ranging from bony fractures and dislocations to spinal cord disruption. These injuries can be a devastating and debilitating. Although most injuries that occur are self-limiting there is a significant proportion that can cause permanent disability. Due to the equipment used in football, unique on-field care is implemented in evaluating athletes with possible cervical spine injury. Early preseason preparation and proper on-field intervention can help improve outcomes for these athletes.
Bell
Kameno
K
Department of Family Medicine, Indiana University School of Medicine, 4752 Kimbark, Chicago, IL 60615, USA. kambell@iupui.edu
D002574:Cervical Vertebrae / Q000293:injuries*; D005538:Football / Q000293:injuries*; D006260:Head Protective Devices; D006801:Humans; D013119:Spinal Cord Injuries / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000628:therapy*; D016103:Spinal Fractures / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000628:therapy; D013178:Sports Medicine / Q000295:instrumentation / Q000379:methods*