We Know: All About Spinal Cord Injuries What causes a spinal cord injury? A spinal cord injury occurs when damage directly to the spinal cord ,or to the bones, tissues, and blood vessels around the spinal cord ,results in its displacement or disruption. Spinal cord injuries are caused by Car accidents Sports injuries Gunshot wounds Spinal stenosis, or narrowing due to age Surgery that weakens the spinal cord Damage to the discs or bones surrounding the spinal cord Swelling or fluid build-up within and around the spinal cord This type of injury leads to partial or complete paralysis of certain parts of the body. How often do spinal cord injuries occur? According to the National Health Institute, approximately 12,000 to 15,000 spinal cord injuries occur per year. Of these, 10,000 will result in some form of permanent paralysis while the rest end in death. Spinal cord injuries can happen to anybody, but males between the ages of 15 and 35 are more likely suffer the effects of these injuries. What symptoms are associated with spinal cord injuries? The symptoms depend on the location of the damage, leading to either partial or complete paralysis of the affected area. Any damage to the spinal cord at the level of the neck (cervical injury) is serious and affects movement of the arms and legs while an injury sustained to the spine at chest-level (thoracic injury) primarily affects the legs. Common symptoms of spinal cord injuries include: Numbness, or a loss of feeling at or below the injury Increased muscle spasticity Difficulty with breathing (due to some paralysis of the lung muscles) Pain Potential loss of bowel and bladder control Trouble maintaining body temperature How are spinal cord injuries diagnosed? Diagnosis is usually made by: Conducting a neurological examination Using a spinal x-ray to locate a fracture or area of bone damage Using a CT or MRI scan to identify the location and extent of the injury, and to identify the existence of blood clots Somatosensory evoked potential or magnetic stimulation to test the nerves around the spinal cord How are spinal cord injuries treated? Immediate attention mitigates long-term damage. Medical physicians generally use corticosteroids to reduce the swelling around the injury. Surgery may be necessary to remove objects (i.e. bone fragments, tissue, fluid) that is compressing the spine. Doctors may also recommend bed rest or immobilization to take the pressure off the spine so it can heal. Physical therapy, occupational therapy, or rehabilitation helps those suffering paralysis adjust to life after their disability. What is the prognosis? If there is no movement or sensation within the first six months of the injury, the loss of movement is considered permanent. If doctors detect movement within one week, the individual will most likely make a full recovery. How does one prevent spinal cord injuries? Safety is the number one weapon against this type of injury. What can one do? Wear seatbelts while driving. Don't dive into pools with shallow water or with sharp objects Use protective gear when playing sports
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