I have treated numerous patients suffering from neck fractures, and each injury is different from the next. A neck fracture can happen for many different reasons. Common causes include falls, collisions, diving into shallow water, sudden twists to the neck or severe blows to the head and neck area. The first thing I do with an injured patient is assess the severity of the injury. Is it associated with dislocation or instability? Which cervical bones are broken? Is there a spinal cord or nerve injury? This information helps me determine the best option for treatment. Common treatment options include immobilization, bracing and surgery. Immobilization is safest immediate option at the accident scene, when there is a possibility of a broken neck, as it minimizes or prevents further spinal cord injury.  Bracing is recommended as ongoing treatment  for minor or stable fractures, when allowing the neck to become more stable. A neck brace or collar is often worn until the neck completely heals, usually lasting between 8 – 12 weeks. Certain exercises are often used for a fractured neck that will strengthen and stretch the muscles supporting the cervical vertebrae. This is essential for proper recovery, and is often done with