head and neck injury

4 years ago my ex threw me into a wall and i didnt go to a+e. i had a huge lump on the bottom of my skull for about 3 weeks. then 1 day i woke up with pain in my arm + shoulder. I started seeing a physio originally for my arm, who said i have a trapped nerve in the neck. Then she told me i have a twisted vertebrae c2.  I am experiencing bad lengthy migraines, and occasional sharp shooting pains from the bottom of my head to the top. I knew physio would cause some pain but this is intense. I told gp who gave pain killers. but physiotherapist said our sessions are coming to an end. I dont want to have to take pain killers for the rest of my life, how long is this going to last? Do I need to see a neurologist or have a ct scan?

[caregiver222]

The bad news it can last forever. The good news is that sometimes therapy will help. Provided an MRI has ruled out a fractured vertebra.  Treatment is generally an axial traction device, sold for about $35. You need to be in axial traction for ten to fifteen minutes several times a day to start. Throw away the water bags and just gently suspend yourself so there is moderate axial pressure upwards. DON'T let your full weight hang on the device. Usually a few days of prednisone to start with, perhaps 40 mg in two divided doses, then taper off by 10 mg a day and begin Ibuprufin 800 mg a day in two divided doses with food for a week or two, then 400 mg Ibuprufin in two divided doses. On the second day begin "range of motion" exercises through the limits of pain. If you don't exercise through the limits of pain you end up with a "frozen shoulder".  Keep well hydrated. Very few physicians or chiropracters know how to deal with this. You have a textbook "subluxion" injury. Don't get a CT. An MRI is helpful. You will probably have to use the traction device for at least three months. These injuries are tricky because under normal circumstances you thing that pain means you should move and cause more pain or you will damage something. In these cases, you have to move through the limits of pain. I would recommend you see a specialist in subluxion injuries (M.D.) before following my suggestions.