What Does The Following Cervical X-ray Finding Indicate?

Posted on Thu, 11 Dec 2014

Question: is this a serious problem? this was my results from my cervical x- ray.

2 mm movement at C3-4, C4-5, and C5-6 levels with 1 mm movement at C6-7 with flexion/extension

Answered by Dr. Geldon Fejzo (1 hour later)

Brief Answer:
Possible Whiplash? Need MRI & Neuro exam

Detailed Answer:
Hello. I suppose the cervical x ray was done for neck pain. These findings sometimes are seen after an accident, also known as whiplash, caused by an acceleration-deceleration accident. A second cause might be due to degeneration spine but given your young age I would exlude it. The next step would be a cervical MRI which evaluates better the spinal medulla and the soft tissues if the spine. Then a neurologic exam to see if there is a clinical correlation. If these are normal I would reccomend a cervical collar for some weeks to stabilize it.
This are my recommendations. Hope this answers your question. Please feel free for further question.

Note: For further queries, consult a joint and bone specialist, an Orthopaedic surgeon. Book a Call now.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Vinay Bhardwaj