Question
QUESTION: Hi, I was sledding a week ago and when the sled hit the fence I sort of tipped forward and the top of my forehead hit the fence, my neck and back have been bugging me since, mainly right between my shoulder blades, yesterday the middle of my back near my spine had a dull pain as well, especially if I twisted my body. There is a slight popped when I breathe or move around. The pain gets worse as the day goes on and I am doing dishes/laundry, it is not unbearable but it is there. My question is, how long will it take something like this to heal? I was putting heat on it but now I am doing ice. Is there anything I can do to help with the healing process? Is there a certain amount of time I should allow to go on before I am seen or is this something that will eventually heal on it's own with time? I have no insurance, my husband and I are raising my two children on one income as we are in school. Any advice you have to give would be a blessing!

ANSWER: Amy,

You could be injured mildly or moderately and there is no way to know unless you have a hands-on physical examination.   You could have a cervical spine disc injury, rib fracture, or simply a spine and or spine/rib joint sprain.  Assuming that nothing is fractured and you only have a minor sprain/strain, this will calm down in a few weeks.   Healing will occur.  Whether it heals cockeyed is another story.   If you don't feel better in another week, then you really should get it checked out by a sports chiropractor or an orthopedist, at best, or a primary care doctor if that's your only resource.  If your school is a division-1 university, then consider popping into the athletic training room and ask if they can take a quick peek at it to see if there is any sign of damage or need for medical evaluation.

'Hope this helps.

Dr. G

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Thank you for your quick response, I really appreciate it! Also, I forgot to ask, but when I am sitting down my head begins to feel heavy, is that something to worry about? I will keep an eye on it and if it is not better in a week I will get it checked out. Thanks again, have a great day.

Answer
Amy,

The "Heavy Head" symptom is very common after head and neck injuries.  We see this especially after whiplash injuries.  I know you stated you have financial barriers, but consider that if you don't heal well, you could have longer term symptoms.  If you feel like you don't have a major injury or fracture and can get around okay, I'd suggest light cardiovascular exercises.   You can even do light weight circuit training so long as it doesn't hurt to do it.  You can employ your spouse to do massage to your neck and upper back.  But again, if you're still symptomatic after another week, then get it checked out.

'Best,

Dr. G