A neck fracture is caused by severe trauma to the neck. Trauma includes:
- Falls, such as from a horse or bike
- Collisions, such as motorcycle or automobile
- Diving into shallow water
- Severe and sudden twist to the neck
- Severe blows to the head or neck area
A risk factor is something that increases your chance of getting a disease, condition, or injury.
Risk factors for a neck fracture include:
- Advancing age
- Decreased muscle mass
- Osteoporosis
- Certain contact sports, such as football or soccer
- Violence
- Not wearing your seatbelt when driving in a car
- Head injury or other traumatic injury such as severe chest trauma, pelvis or femur fractures