MedDroid
Ask MedDroid
Spinal Cord Injury
A spinal cord injury is damage to the spinal cord that can affect movement, sensation and body functions below the level of injury. It is a medical emergency and careful handling can prevent further harm.
Causes & risk factors
- Road traffic accidents
- Falls, especially in older people
- Sports and diving injuries
- Violence
- Sometimes from tumours, infection or advanced arthritis
Common symptoms
- Weakness or paralysis
- Numbness or loss of sensation
- Back or neck pain
- Loss of bladder or bowel control
- Difficulty breathing (high injuries)
Tests & diagnosis
Treatment & management
- Emergency stabilisation and careful immobilisation
- Surgery to relieve pressure and stabilise the spine
- Intensive and supportive hospital care
- Long-term rehabilitation — physiotherapy and occupational therapy
- Managing bladder, bowel, skin and breathing care
When to see a doctor urgently
- After any major injury, do not move the person and call your local emergency number now
- New weakness, numbness or loss of bladder or bowel control — call your local emergency number now
- Neck or back pain with tingling or weakness after a fall or accident
- Difficulty breathing after a neck injury — emergency
Frequently asked questions
Should I move someone who may have a spinal injury?
No, unless they are in immediate danger. Keep them still, support the head and neck in line with the body, and call your local emergency number. Moving them can worsen the injury.
Is recovery possible?
It depends on how severe and complete the injury is. Some function can return, especially with early treatment and rehabilitation, but some injuries cause lasting disability. Rehab focuses on maximising independence.
Explore more
Sources & further reading
- World Health Organization (WHO)
- MedlinePlus — U.S. National Library of Medicine
- Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, India
- Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR)
Reviewed by Dr. Sanjay Anbu, MBBS. MedDroid is an AI medical assistant and can make mistakes. It provides general health information, not a diagnosis or medical advice — always consult a qualified clinician. In an emergency, contact your local emergency number immediately.