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Spinal Cord Injury
Emergency
Spinal cord injury is damage to the spinal cord that can interfere with movement, sensation, or normal control of body functions below the level of the injury. The severity depends on the location and extent of damage and whether the injury is complete or incomplete. Traumatic injuries may cause weakness, paralysis, altered sensation, pain, or problems with bladder and bowel function. Nontraumatic injuries can produce similar effects when disease or another medical condition damages or compresses the spinal cord.
Body System
Spine & Back
Emergency Medical Attention
Spinal cord injury is a medical emergency and requires immediate medical assessment. Do not move a person with a suspected spinal injury unless necessary for immediate safety. Seek emergency care for loss of sensation or movement, severe neck or back pain after trauma, weakness, difficulty breathing, loss of bladder or bowel control, or any significant neurological change.
Symptoms
3
Causes
1
Treatments
5
Diet
3
Overview
Spinal cord injury is damage to the spinal cord that can interfere with movement, sensation, or normal control of body functions below the level of the injury. The severity depends on the location and extent of damage and whether the injury is complete or incomplete. Traumatic injuries may cause weakness, paralysis, altered sensation, pain, or problems with bladder and bowel function. Nontraumatic injuries can produce similar effects when disease or another medical condition damages or compresses the spinal cord.
Symptoms 3
Facial Drooping
Frequent Hunger
Numbness
Causes 1
Spinal cord injury can result from traumatic damage when the spinal cord is bruised, stretched, compressed, or torn. Common traumatic causes include motor-vehicle crashes, falls, sports injuries, and acts of violence. Fractures or dislocations of the spine can compress or damage the cord. Nontraumatic spinal cord injury can occur because of tumors, infections, inflammation, reduced blood supply, degenerative changes, or other medical conditions that affect the spinal cord or surrounding structures.
Infection
Risk Factors
Risk is increased by activities or circumstances associated with severe trauma, including high-speed vehicle crashes, falls from heights, contact or high-impact sports, violence, and unsafe diving or water activities. Older adults may have increased risk of spinal injury from falls, particularly when bone or balance problems are present. Failure to use seat belts, protective equipment, or appropriate workplace and recreational safety measures can also increase the likelihood of traumatic injury.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis is based on a patient's medical history,
symptoms, physical examination and, when necessary,
laboratory or imaging investigations.
Diagnosis requires an urgent assessment of neurological function, including strength, sensation, reflexes, and other signs of spinal cord involvement. Imaging is used to identify damage to the spine and spinal cord. CT scans can show fractures or other structural injuries, while MRI can provide detailed information about the spinal cord, discs, ligaments, compression, bleeding, or soft-tissue damage. The neurological examination and imaging findings help determine the level and severity of injury.
Prevention
Key Prevention Tips
Many traumatic spinal cord injuries can be reduced by preventing serious accidents
Use seat belts and appropriate child restraints in vehicles, follow workplace safety procedures, and use suitable protective equipment during sports and recreational activities
Avoid diving into unfamiliar or shallow water
Reduce fall hazards at home, particularly for people at increased risk of falls
Never drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs, and follow established safety practices when using vehicles, machinery, or equipment
Prevention Guidance
Many traumatic spinal cord injuries can be reduced by preventing serious accidents. Use seat belts and appropriate child restraints in vehicles, follow workplace safety procedures, and use suitable protective equipment during sports and recreational activities. Avoid diving into unfamiliar or shallow water. Reduce fall hazards at home, particularly for people at increased risk of falls. Never drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs, and follow established safety practices when using vehicles, machinery, or equipment.
Reminder: Prevention recommendations should be tailored to your personal health status and risk factors.
Treatment & Management 5
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Medical Note: The treatment information provided is intended for educational purposes only.
Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before starting,
stopping, or changing any treatment.
Diet & Nutrition 3
Recommended Foods
Protein-rich Foods
Support tissue repair
Fresh Fruits
Provide antioxidants
Vegetables
Support recovery
Foods to Avoid
Alcohol
May impair recovery
Processed Foods
Limit intake
Medical Nutrition Note: Diet recommendations are intended for general educational purposes and should be tailored to individual health needs by a qualified healthcare professional.
Frequently Asked Questions 5
Damage to the spinal cord affecting movement and sensation.
Accidents, falls, and trauma are common causes.
Weakness, paralysis, and loss of sensation.
Yes, immediate medical attention is essential.
Neurological examination and imaging studies.
Helpful Tip: These answers provide general medical information.
Consult your healthcare provider for advice tailored to your condition.