What happens when you break your C7 vertebrae?

Individuals with a complete C7 spinal cord injury will not be able to move or feel their trunk or lower body, and will also have some impairments in their hands/fingers. This will affect: Bladder and bowel movements. The inability to control these reflexes and muscle contractions can make you very prone to accidents.

How long does it take for a C7 fracture to heal?

It is usually a very stable fracture and does not produce any neurologic deficits. It typically heals with 6-8 weeks of relative rest with no further treatment being needed in most cases.

How is a C7 fracture treated?

Immobilization. Using a neck brace or collar after an acute injury, such as fracture, may help promote healing of tissues and prevent further injury. Physical therapy. Physical therapy can help strengthen neck muscles, improve posture, and increase range of motion after a C6-C7 motion segment injury.

Can you recover from a C7 fracture?

C6, C7, and C8 Spinal Cord Injury Recovery Spinal cord injuries to the C6, C7, and C8 levels that are treated immediately have the best chance for recovery. Patients will typically know the extent of the long-term damage within six months of the injury.

Can you walk after a C7 fracture?

Some patients can take a few weeks to regain the ability to walk, while others take several months or longer.

Does C7 fracture cause paralysis?

C7 spinal cord injury and other injuries to the lower cervical vertebrae/nerves can result in paralysis and other health complications.

Can a fractured vertebrae cause paralysis?

Minor fractures of the spine can be healed with rest and medication, however, more severe fractures might require surgery to realign the bones. If left untreated, spinal fractures can lead to permanent spinal cord injury, nerve damage and paralysis.

Can you walk again if you break your spine?

While some sufferers of spinal cord injuries are eventually able to walk again after their injuries, others are not able to do so. The spinal cord is a complex nerve network responsible for communicating messages between the brain and the rest of the body.

Can you fully recover from a broken neck?

A broken neck with no damage to the spinal cord may heal completely, but it’s possible to suffer continued neck pain and frequent headaches as the result of this injury.