Signs of a possible cervical spine injury include all of the following EXCEPT ________.

A persistent headache can arise from a variety of medical conditions, including tension headaches, migraines, or even other unrelated injuries. While headaches are a common complaint in emergency situations, they do not specifically indicate a cervical spine injury.

In contrast, numbness or tingling in the arms, difficulty breathing, and a limited range of motion are more closely associated with potential cervical spine injuries. These symptoms are indicative of nerve or spinal cord involvement, which may occur due to trauma in that area. For instance, numbness or tingling in the arms usually suggests nerve compression or damage, while difficulty breathing might indicate involvement of the upper cervical vertebrae affecting the diaphragm or other respiratory muscles. Limited range of motion, particularly in the neck, is also a strong indicator of potential injury.

Understanding the specific signs associated with cervical spine injuries is critical for timely and appropriate care. Recognizing that a persistent headache is not among those signs can help responders focus on the more relevant symptoms when assessing a patient's condition.