Cervical Fracture Fixation

Cervical Fracture Fixation Rehabilitation Physiotherapy in Singapore

Cervical fracture fixation is a surgical procedure performed to stabilise and realign the cervical spine after serious injuries such as road traffic accidents, falls, or sports-related trauma. The cervical spine consists of seven vertebrae (C1–C7) that support the head, allow neck movement, and protect the spinal cord.

A fracture in the cervical spine can disrupt this delicate structure and may place pressure on the spinal cord. This can lead to symptoms such as neck pain, stiffness, reduced mobility, muscle weakness, numbness or tingling in the arms, and in severe cases paralysis.

Following surgery, structured physiotherapy rehabilitation is essential to restore movement, strength, and functional independence.

At ACE PHYSIO SPORTS, located on East Coast Road in Singapore, our specialist physiotherapists provide comprehensive rehabilitation programmes to support recovery after cervical spine injuries and surgical fixation procedures.

Understanding Cervical Spine Fractures

The cervical spine is responsible for supporting the head while allowing flexibility and protecting the spinal cord. Because it is highly mobile and structurally complex, it can be vulnerable to injury during high-impact trauma.

Cervical fractures may occur due to:

• Road traffic accidents
• Falls from height
• Sports injuries
• Direct trauma to the neck
• High-impact collisions

When the vertebrae fracture or become displaced, the spinal cord and surrounding nerves may be compressed or damaged, which can significantly affect movement, sensation, and daily function.

Treatment Options for Cervical Spine Fractures

The treatment approach depends on the type, location, and severity of the fracture.

Non-Surgical Treatment

Minor compression fractures may be treated using a cervical brace, such as a halo brace or rigid neck collar. These devices help stabilise the neck and allow the bones to heal properly over several weeks.

Bracing is usually required for 6–8 weeks, depending on the injury.

Surgical Treatment – Cervical Fracture Fixation

More severe or unstable fractures may require surgical stabilisation.

Common surgical techniques include:

• Traction techniques to align the fractured vertebrae
• Open reduction and internal fixation using plates, rods, or screws
• C1–C2 screw fixation for upper cervical fractures
• Occipitocervical plate fixation for stabilising the skull and upper cervical spine
• Lateral mass plating for lower cervical spine stabilisation
• Spinal fusion procedures to permanently stabilise vertebrae
• Wiring techniques for additional structural support

These surgical methods help restore spinal alignment, stabilise the vertebrae, and reduce the risk of further spinal cord injury.

Types of Unstable Cervical Spine Fractures

Some cervical spine fractures are considered unstable and may carry a higher risk of spinal cord damage.

Jefferson’s Fracture

Jefferson’s fracture is a burst fracture of the C1 vertebra caused by strong axial forces, such as diving accidents. In some cases, neurological damage may be limited despite the severity of the injury.

Flexion Teardrop Fracture

A flexion teardrop fracture occurs when extreme forward bending forces cause a fragment of the vertebra to break away. This is considered one of the most severe cervical injuries and can cause spinal cord compression and quadriplegia.

Extension Teardrop Fracture

This injury results from hyperextension of the neck, causing a fragment to break from the vertebral body, often at the C2 level.

Bilateral Locked Facets

This injury occurs when adjacent vertebrae become displaced and the facet joints lock. This displacement narrows the spinal canal and can lead to significant neurological deficits.

Prompt diagnosis and surgical stabilisation are often necessary to prevent long-term complications.

Physiotherapy After Cervical Fracture Fixation

Physiotherapy is a crucial part of recovery after cervical spine surgery.

At ACE PHYSIO SPORTS, our physiotherapists design personalised rehabilitation programmes based on the type of surgery performed and the patient’s overall condition.

Common issues addressed during rehabilitation include:

• Pain and discomfort
• Swelling around the surgical site
• Reduced neck mobility
• Loss of muscle strength
• Difficulty performing daily activities

During your first physiotherapy session, a comprehensive assessment will evaluate how the injury affects your movement, posture, and daily tasks.

Based on this evaluation, a structured rehabilitation plan will be created with clear short-term and long-term goals.

Physiotherapy Treatment Techniques

Rehabilitation after cervical fracture fixation may involve a combination of therapeutic techniques.

Pain Management

Physiotherapists may use treatments such as:

• Ice therapy
• Ultrasound therapy
• Gentle manual therapy techniques

These help reduce inflammation and discomfort during the early stages of recovery.

Postural Education

Patients receive guidance on safe postures for:

• Sitting
• Sleeping
• Working
• Daily activities

Correct posture helps reduce strain on the healing cervical spine.

Range of Motion Exercises

Gradual movement exercises help restore flexibility and mobility in the neck.

These may include:

• Gentle neck bending
• Rotation exercises
• Controlled extension movements

Both active and passive exercises may be used depending on recovery progress.

Strengthening Exercises

Strengthening exercises focus on improving stability and supporting the cervical spine.

These may include:

• Isometric neck strengthening
• Core stability exercises
• Shoulder stabilisation training

Strengthening surrounding muscles helps protect the spine during everyday movements.

Aerobic Conditioning

Low-impact cardiovascular exercises may be introduced to improve overall fitness and endurance.

Examples include:

• Walking programmes
• Stationary cycling
• Light aerobic training

Ergonomic Assessment

Physiotherapists provide advice on workplace ergonomics and daily movement patterns to prevent excessive strain on the neck.

This helps support long-term spinal health.

Benefits of Physiotherapy After Cervical Spine Surgery

A structured physiotherapy programme can significantly improve recovery after cervical fracture fixation.

Benefits include:

• Reduced pain and inflammation
• Improved neck mobility
• Increased muscle strength and stability
• Enhanced functional independence
• Better posture and movement control
• Increased confidence in daily activities

Early rehabilitation often leads to better long-term outcomes and improved quality of life.

Cervical Spine Rehabilitation at ACE PHYSIO SPORTS

At ACE PHYSIO SPORTS, our physiotherapists specialise in treating spinal injuries, neck pain, and post-surgical rehabilitation.

We provide personalised physiotherapy programmes designed to help patients:

• Restore neck movement
• Improve strength and posture
• Regain independence in daily activities
• Safely return to work, exercise, and sports

Our clinic is conveniently located on East Coast Road in Singapore, serving patients from Katong, Marine Parade, and surrounding areas.

To arrange an appointment:

📞 Call +65 8153 5374 🌐 Visit acephysiosport.com