Spinal cord trauma

Injury	Disease	Nutrition	Poison

Symptoms	Surgery	Test	Special Topic

Vertebrae

Cauda equina

Vertebra and spinal nerves

Overview

Symptoms

Treatment

Prevention

Spinal cord trauma

Alternative Names:

Spinal cord compression or injury; Compression of spinal cord

Prevention:

Safety practices during work and recreation can prevent many spinal cord injuries. Use proper protective equipment if an injury is possible.

Diving into shallow water is a major cause of spinal cord trauma. Check the depth of water before diving, and look for rocks or other possible obstructions.

Football and sledding injuries often involve sharp blows or abnormal twisting and bending of the back or neck and can result in spinal cord trauma. Use caution when sledding and inspect the area for obstacles. Use appropriate techniques and equipment when playing football or other contact sports.

Falls while climbing at work or during recreation can result in spinal cord injuries. Defensive driving and wearing seat belts greatly reduces the risk of serious injury if there is an automobile accident.

Review Date: 7/23/2004
Reviewed By: Luc D. Jasmin, MD, PhD, Department of Neurological Surgery, University of California, San Francisco, CA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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