Cervical Spine Injury in Children and Adolescents

Abstract

Complaints related to the neck are common following mild pediatric trauma. Although significant cervical spine injuries are most often seen and evaluated in the emergency room or inpatient setting, the primary care provider is faced with the evaluation of lower acuity complaints. We provide a review to assist with the efficient evaluation of these patients to facilitate decisions regarding return to play, the need for imaging, and need for referral to subspecialty providers.

Keywords: Cervical spine injury; Clinical decision-making tools; Pediatric; Return to play.