In a study from Norway the most common cause was falls and the relative incidence of cervical spine fracture increased significantly with age.

Cervical fractures may also be seen in some non-contact sports, such as gymnastics, skiing, diving, surfing, powerlifting, equestrianism, mountain biking, and motor racing.

The knot in the noose is placed to the left of the condemned, so that at the end of the drop, the head is jolted sharply upwards and to the right.

[9] The indication to surgically stabilize a cervical fracture can be estimated from the Subaxial Injury Classification (SLIC).

[10] The score is the sum from 3 different categories: morphology, discs and ligaments, and neurology:[10] Complete immobilization of the head and neck should be done as early as possible and before moving the patient.

In the long term, physical therapy will be given to build strength in the muscles of the neck to increase stability and better protect the cervical spine.

A soft collar is fairly flexible and is the least limiting but can carry a high risk of further neck damage in patients with osteoporosis.

A range of manufactured rigid collars are also used, usually comprising a firm plastic bi-valved shell secured with Velcro straps and removable padded liners.

[11] Examples include the Sterno-Occipital Mandibular Immobilization Device (SOMI), Lerman Minerva and Yale types.

It can provide stability and support during the time (typically 8–12 weeks) needed for the cervical bones to heal.