Spinal Trauma

Spinal trauma involves injury to the vertebrae, spinal cord, or surrounding tissues due to a sudden impact. This includes fractures, dislocations, or direct spinal cord injury. It’s a medical emergency that requires immediate assessment and intervention to prevent or limit permanent damage.

Types of Spinal Trauma

1. 1. Fractures – Compression, burst, or fracture-dislocation
   2. Dislocations – Vertebrae slip out of alignment
   3. Spinal Cord Injury (SCI) – Can be complete or incomplete, affecting motor and sensory function
   4. Soft Tissue Injury – Damage to ligaments, discs, or muscles

Symptoms

• • Sudden, severe back or neck pain
  • Numbness, tingling, or paralysis
  • Weakness in limbs
  • Loss of bowel or bladder control
  • Difficulty breathing (if high cervical spine is affected)

Diagnostic Steps

• • Spinal Immobilization – Immediate precaution in trauma cases
  • CT scan – Best for detecting fractures
  • MRI – Evaluates spinal cord, ligaments, and soft tissue
  • Neurological Exams – Determine level and severity of spinal cord injury

Long-Term Treatment

• • Surgery – Stabilization with screws, rods, or spinal fusion
  • Rehabilitation – Physical therapy, occupational therapy, psychological support
  • Assistive Devices – Braces, wheelchairs, or mobility aids depending on severity
  • Pain Management – Medications, injections, or nerve blocks