Hangman’s Fracture Preventions
editA Hangman’s fracture was the name given to the injury of the C2. It is a fracture of both pedicles of the axis vertebra (C2). This occurs when the head is hyperextended along with distraction of the neck.
Car Crashes
editMost commonly this can occur during a car accident. A person involved in a car crash, especially with no seat belt, can slam their chin against the steering wheel, dashboard or windshield causing the hyperextension to occur.
Contact Sports
editFalling and collisions with other people in a contact sport can also be other ways to this fracture. Falling causes the weight of the body to force hyperextension. Collision with other players in a contact sport can be very dangerous as well, in football diving for the ball could make someone land of their head once again forcing the neck into hyperextension and also the piling of players on top of you just adds more weight which adds more occurrences to this fracture. There are no particular stretches or exercises to prevent this fracture from happening, but be cautious to your movements. Always wear a seatbelt while driving a vehicle, not only can a Hangman’s Fracture occur but plenty more can happen to you if you choose not to wear a seatbelt while in a vehicle. If you do play contact sports just know what can happen if you dive and land the wrong way. Being cautious is always a great prevention.