Concussion Management Practice Exam

What is the role of the cervical spine exam in concussion assessment?

Diagnose concussion based on neck pain alone. Screen for possible cervical spine injury and neck instability; neck pain or tenderness can accompany concussion; ensure safe movement. Replace balance testing with cervical exam. Determine brain imaging necessity.

Correct Answer:

Screen for possible cervical spine injury and neck instability; neck pain or tenderness can accompany concussion; ensure safe movement.

Explanation:

The cervical spine exam in concussion assessment is a screening step to identify possible neck injuries or instability when a head injury is suspected. Neck pain or tenderness can occur with concussion, but there may also be an actual cervical injury, and moving an injured neck can worsen it. By checking range of motion, specific neck tenderness, and any neurological signs, clinicians look for red flags that would require careful handling, immobilization, or medical clearance before proceeding with activity. This helps keep movement safe and informs the next steps in evaluation and return-to-play decisions. It does not diagnose concussion from neck symptoms alone, it does not replace balance testing, and it does not by itself determine the need for brain imaging.

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