What are flexion-extension injuries? | Dr. Andrew Cash, MD Las Vegas, Nevada
Flexion is another way to explain the action of bending. Flexing a muscle will naturally make the angle of two body parts smaller, like when you bend your knee. Normal flexion can be compromised by certain conditions, such as trauma to the spine, broken bones, muscle or tendon ruptures or tears, arthritis, or other muscular diseases. Flexion rotation injuries can happen in various parts of the spinal cord but are more common in the cervical area.
Extension is the opposite of flexion – it is another way to explain the movement of joints that are drawn away from each other. Forced extension injuries, also known as hyperextension injuries, mean that the head is shoved back abruptly and the spine is forced to hyperextend. This type of injury can damage surrounding ligaments, tissues, and discs.
If your doctor suspects you have one of these types of injuries, you will likely need to have an x-ray or MRI. Treatment usually includes exercises, physical therapy, or in more serious cases, surgery may be needed.
Contact Dr. Cash at Desert Institute of Spine Care for more information about flexion-extension injuries and an appointment at: http://disclv.com.