Exams and Tests

The doctor will take a detailed history emphasizing specific medications that you may be taking. A physical examination will be performed.

When there is a history of trauma, the doctor may take x-rays of your neck to exclude a fracture or dislocation of the spinal bones in your neck.

• Often, x-rays are sufficient to make this determination.
  
  
• In a small number of cases, subtle abnormalities or preexisting conditions, for example, degenerative arthritis of the spine of the neck, may require a CT scan of the neck.