Causes
A spinal cord injury may be caused by incidents such as:
- Bullet or stab wound
- Fracture of the spine
- Traumatic injury to the face, neck, head, chest, or back (for example, a car accident)
- Diving accident
- Electric shock
- Extreme twisting of the middle of the body
- Sports injury
- Falls
Definition
The spinal cord contains the nerves that carry messages between your brain and the rest of the body. The cord passes through your neck and back. A spinal cord injury is very serious because it can cause loss of movement (paralysis), function, and sensation below the site of the injury.
Prevention
The following may lower your risk for spinal injury:
- Wear seat belts.
- Do not drink and drive.
- Do not dive into pools, lakes, rivers, and other bodies of water, particularly if you cannot determine the depth of the water or if the water is not clear.
- Do not tackle or dive into a person with your head.
References
National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke website. Spinal cord injury. www.ninds.nih.gov/health-information/disorders/spinal-cord-injury. Last reviewed October 16, 2023. Accessed October 16, 2023.
Preston-Suni K, Kaji AH. Spinal trauma. In: Walls RM, ed. Rosen's Emergency Medicine: Concepts and Clinical Practice. 10th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2023:chap 35.
Willians KD. Fractures, dislocations, and fracture-dislocations of the spine. In: Azar FM, Beaty JH, eds. Campbell's Operative Orthopaedics. 14th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2021:chap 41.
Symptoms
Symptoms of a spinal cord injury may include any of the following:
- Head that is in an unusual position
- Numbness or tingling that spreads down an arm or leg
- Weakness
- Difficulty walking
- Paralysis (loss of movement) of arms or legs
- Loss of bladder or bowel control
- Shock (pale, clammy skin, bluish lips and fingernails, acting dazed or semiconscious)
- Lack of alertness (unconsciousness)
- Stiff neck, headache, or neck pain
When to Contact a Medical Professional
Call your local emergency number (such as 911) if you think someone has a spinal cord injury. DO NOT move the person unless there is urgent danger.