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Open division, neck ligament

Last edited: 4/15/2026

Overview

Open division neck ligament injuries involve damage to ligaments in the neck, often seen in contact sports like lacrosse, leading to instability and functional impairment 1.

Diagnosis

  • Clinical Examination: Assess for pain, range of motion limitations, and neurological deficits 1.
  • Imaging: MRI or CT scans to evaluate ligament integrity and rule out fractures 1.
  • Grading: Often classified using the Anderson and D'Alonzo grading system (I-III) based on severity and instability 1.

    • Management

  • Conservative Treatment: Initial immobilization with a cervical collar, followed by gradual mobilization and physiotherapy 1.
  • Physical Therapy: Focus on strengthening neck muscles and improving flexibility 1.
  • Pain Management: NSAIDs for pain relief; specific dosing not detailed in the abstracts 1.

    • Special Populations

  • Athletes: Pre-season conditioning programs should include neck strengthening exercises to prevent injuries 1.
  • No specific data: Limited information on pregnancy, pediatrics, elderly, or comorbidities related to open division neck ligament injuries 1.

    • Key Recommendations

  • Implement pre-season conditioning programs incorporating neck strengthening exercises to reduce injury risk in athletes (Evidence: Expert opinion) 1.
  • Initiate conservative management with cervical immobilization followed by physiotherapy for diagnosed ligament injuries (Evidence: Expert opinion) 1.
  • Utilize imaging studies (MRI/CT) for accurate diagnosis and assessment of ligament damage (Evidence: Expert opinion) 1.

    • References

    1 Withers RT. Physiological responses of international female lacrosse players to pre-season conditioning. Medicine and science in sports 1978. link

    Original source

    1. [1]
      Physiological responses of international female lacrosse players to pre-season conditioning. — Withers RT Medicine and science in sports (1978)
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