It is sometimes easier to imagine the spinal cord as the brain's relay system; its method of transmitting messages throughout the body. If the spinal cord is damaged through a spinal cord injury, it can cause a disruption of signals to areas of the body, and results in paralysis.
If you suspect someone has a spinal injury:Get help. Call 911 or emergency medical help.Keep the person still. Place heavy towels or rolled sheets on both sides of the neck or hold the head and neck to prevent movement.Avoid moving the head or neck. ... Keep helmet on. ... Don't roll alone.
A spinal cord injury — damage to any part of the spinal cord or nerves at the end of the spinal canal (cauda equina) — often causes permanent changes in strength, sensation and other body functions below the site of the injury.Oct 2, 2021
What causes an acute spinal cord injury?Falls.Motor vehicle accidents (automobiles, motorcycles, and being struck as a pedestrian)Sports injuries.Diving accidents.Trampoline accidents.Violence (gunshot or stab wounds)Infections that form an abscess on the spinal cord.More items...
While some sufferers of spinal cord injuries are eventually able to walk again after their injuries, others are not able to do so. The spinal cord is a complex nerve network responsible for communicating messages between the brain and the rest of the body.Mar 10, 2021
The spinal cord is a long, tube-like band of tissue. It connects your brain to your lower back. Your spinal cord carries nerve signals from your brain to your body and vice versa. These nerve signals help you feel sensations and move your body.
When the spinal cord is damaged, the message from the brain cannot get through. The spinal nerves below the level of injury get signals, but they are not able to go up the spinal tracts to the brain. Reflex movements can happen, but these are not movements that can be controlled.
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.
General Prevention for Spinal Cord Injuries Always wear a seatbelt when driving or riding in a motor vehicle. This is very important for children. Make sure to properly install child safety restraints in the vehicle. Never drive a motor vehicle under the influence of alcohol or drugs, or ride with anyone who has.
Age is the main risk factor linked to spinal cord injuries. Young adult males (between ages 15 and 35) and older adults are at the highest risk. SCI risk peaks during young adulthood. Young adults tend to have increased risk due to violence, motor vehicle accidents, and sports injuries.