Types of Spine Injuries

Your spine is one of the most essential parts of your body. It provides structural support and enables movement, allowing you to stand, keep yourself upright, move around and bend flexibly. The spine also protects the spinal cord, which is the main pathway for nerve signals traveling between your body and brain.

Between 250,000 and 500,000 people worldwide suffer from spinal cord injuries (SCIs) each year. SCIs are the most severe injury to the spine and can lead to various challenges, from loss of sensation and movement to changes in the daily lives of individuals and their families. Learn more about the different types of spine injuries, their causes and the available treatments.

Anatomy of the Spine: A Quick Review

Your spine has many interconnected parts. Health care professionals categorize this part of the body into five different sections:

• Cervical: The cervical spine has seven vertebrae and extends from your neck to your middle back.
• Thoracic: This part of your spine has 12 vertebrae and makes up the middle of your back.
• Lumbar: The lumbar spine has five vertebrae, starting in the mid-back region and ending at the sacral spine, forming the lower back.
• Sacral: Located above your tailbone but below your lumbar spine, the sacral spine contains five vertebrae.
• Coccygeal: Also known as your coccyx, this part of your spine has four vertebrae and forms your tailbone.

The vertebrae are the small bones that stack together to form your spinal column. Besides the 33 individual vertebrae, the human spine is made up of an intricate network of nerves, muscles, ligaments, tendons, cartilage and other essential tissues. These all work together to support the body and allow for various movements.

Common Types of Spine Injuries

In addition to SCIs, some of the most common types of spine injuries include:

Fractures

Also known as a broken back, spinal fractures refer to a break in one or more vertebrae. They are often caused by trauma, such as car accidents or falls, or diseases that weaken the bones, like osteoporosis.

There are different types of spinal fractures, but these are the most frequently seen:

• Compression fractures: These are small cracks or breaks in the vertebrae, often resulting from an injury or developing over time due to bone disease.
• Burst fractures: Burst fractures occur when the spine is compressed by a sudden and intense force, causing the vertebrae to shatter into many pieces.
• Chance fractures: These are essentially the opposite of burst fractures — chance fractures result from the vertebrae being suddenly pulled away from each other.

The symptoms range from back pain and swelling to changes in posture and height loss. If you suspect you or a loved one has a spinal fracture, a doctor must make a diagnosis. This is typically done through imaging tests and a physical exam.

In many cases, health care professionals treat this injury without surgery. Individuals may need to wear a brace for a couple of months, engage in physical therapy, and take pain medications and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). However, a severe fracture may require surgery. Fortunately, surgical intervention includes minimally invasive procedures like vertebroplasty and kyphoplasty, which involve injecting a hardening material into the bone.

Dislocations

Spinal dislocations involve an injury to the bones or ligaments of the spine, causing the vertebrae to move out of their proper alignment. Dislocated vertebrae usually result from severe trauma, such as falling from a high height or sports injuries.

Hyperflexion and hyperextension of the neck, such as whiplash from a head-on collision, can also lead to dislocation. Additionally, conditions like osteoporosis, spinal stenosis and arthritis can increase the risk of dislocation.

A significant spinal dislocation can result in spinal cord compression, potentially leading to neurological damage. As a result, the treatment approach depends on the extent of the dislocation and whether there is neurological damage.

Generally, the immediate priority is stabilizing the spine with a brace, cervical collar or traction, preventing further harm to the spinal cord. In some instances, doctors may try to realign the vertebrae manually. This process is known as reduction and is performed under sedation. If reduction isn’t possible, surgery may be necessary. After the spine is stabilized, treatment typically consists of pain medication and rehabilitation through physical therapy.

Sprains and Strains

Sprains and strains are the leading causes of back pain. A strain occurs when the tendons and muscles supporting the spine are pulled, torn or twisted. Sprains result from overstretched or torn ligaments.

Such injuries can be caused by lifting something heavy, falling, or participating in sports like football or weightlifting. Sometimes, they result from twisting your body awkwardly.

If you or a loved one has a back strain or sprain, common symptoms can include:

• Pain that worsens with movement.
• Muscle spasms or cramps.
• Limited joint function and range of motion.
• A popping or tearing sensation at the moment of injury.

The treatment for these soft tissue injuries typically involves two separate phases. First, the spasms and pain are reduced through rest, compression and ice packs. Your doctor may also suggest NSAIDs to help with swelling and pain. Then, following the initial 24 to 48 hours, it’s advisable to gradually return to normal activities, as pain allows. If symptoms persist beyond two weeks, seeking further medical advice is essential.

Spinal Cord Injuries: A Closer Look

While injuries like fractures and sprains primarily affect the vertebrae and muscles attached to the spine, SCIs are different because they involve direct damage to the spinal cord. Here’s a more detailed look at SCIs, the most severe form of spinal injury.

Understanding SCIs

An SCI occurs when any part of the spinal cord is harmed. It can also include injury to the cauda equina, the nerves located at the lower end of the cord.

Your spinal cord is responsible for sending and receiving messages between your brain and the rest of your body, and any damage can disrupt this flow of information. That’s why SCIs often result in irreversible changes in strength, sensations and other bodily functions in the area below the level of injury.

The extent to which an individual can control their legs and arms after an SCI depends on the injury’s location on the spinal cord and the degree of damage. When an SCI occurs, doctors will determine the neurological level of the injury, which is the lowest part of the cord that remains undamaged.

They also assess how much feeling has been lost. SCIs can be:

• Complete: If an SCI is complete, there is a total disruption of nerve communication below the level of the injury. Unfortunately, this results in the complete loss of muscle control, function or feeling in the affected areas.
• Incomplete: In an incomplete SCI, the spinal cord retains some ability to relay signals between the brain and the body. This means that individuals may experience some preserved muscle control, function and sensation below their injury site.

Quadriplegia vs. Paraplegia

When an SCI results in the loss of feeling and the ability to move, it’s called paralysis. Depending on the affected body parts, paralysis is categorized as either paraplegia or quadriplegia.

Here is the difference between quadriplegia and paraplegia:

• Quadriplegia: Also known as tetraplegia, quadriplegia is when an individual’s hands, arms, trunk, legs and pelvic organs are affected by their SCI.
• Paraplegia: With paraplegia, the paralysis affects the trunk, legs and pelvic organ but does not impact the arms.

The type of paralysis is related to the location of the SCI. For example, an injury to the lumbar or sacral spine may cause paraplegia. Injuries to the thoracic spine can paralyze or weaken the chest, abdomen and legs, which is known as low tetraplegia. Damage to the cervical spinal cord, which is in the neck, can lead to high tetraplegia — paralysis of the neck down.

Causes and Risk Factors for SCI

SCIs can result from damage to the cord or the vertebrae surrounding the cord, as well as harm to the discs or ligaments in the spinal column. In the United States, car crashes are the main cause of SCIs, followed by falls and acts of violence. From 2015 to 2024, almost 37% of these injuries were attributed to accidents on the road, whereas approximately 8% were caused by sports-related incidents.

While up to 90% of SCIs are the result of blunt trauma, they can be caused by conditions like cancer, arthritis and osteoporosis. SCIs can also be linked to inflammation or infections affecting the spinal cord or the gradual degradation of intervertebral discs, which is known as degenerative disc disease.

As SCIs are typically caused by accidents, they can happen to anyone. However, certain factors can increase your risk:

• Partaking in risky activities: This can include behavior like diving into shallow water or playing sports without protective gear.
• Drinking alcohol: Alcohol consumption can increase one’s chances of experiencing falls or being involved in car accidents.
• Being a certain demographic: In the U.S., approximately 79% of individuals with SCIs are men. Additionally, 47% of these injuries affect those between 16 and 30.

Treatment and Rehabilitation

Unfortunately, there is no way to repair spinal cord damage. But as immediate medical attention can minimize the potential consequences of a spinal injury, treatment for SCIs often begins at the scene of the accident.

If you suspect that your loved one has suffered such an injury, call 911 immediately and keep the person still. When emergency responders arrive, they’ll quickly and carefully immobilize the spine to avoid further damage. This is typically done with a rigid neck collar and a carrying board for transport to the hospital.

In many cases, surgery is necessary to remove herniated discs, bone fragments, foreign objects or fractured vertebrae to relieve pressure on the spinal cord. Surgical intervention can also be crucial in helping stabilize the spine and avoid future pain or complications. After the initial injury is stabilized, the focus shifts to preventing other medical problems, such as a loss of physical fitness, muscle contractures, blood clots, pressure ulcers, respiratory infections, and bowel and bladder issues.

Once an individual is well enough to begin treatment and therapies, they may be transferred to a rehabilitation center to start their recovery journey. Here, the care team aims to improve the patient’s quality of life. Early rehabilitation prioritizes strengthening and maintaining muscles, relearning fine motor skills and adapting to daily tasks. Those affected will learn about SCIs and the skills and technology necessary to live as independently as possible.

Life Expectancy and Quality of Life

The life expectancy for individuals with quadriplegia and paraplegia can vary significantly. It primarily depends on the injury’s severity, their age at the time of the injury and their overall health.

For example, a 20-year-old who survives the first year after an SCI that caused paraplegia has a life expectancy of around 40.7 more years. However, for a 20-year-old surviving the first year after an SCI resulting in high quadriplegia, their average life expectancy is about 28.7 more years.

Although living with an SCI presents significant challenges, it’s important to remember that it’s still possible to live a full and meaningful life with the proper care and support. In addition to medications to help manage pain, muscle spasticity and other effects, innovations in assistive technology help people with paralysis become more mobile and independent:

• Improved wheelchairs: Today’s wheelchairs are more modern and lightweight, allowing those with an SCI to be more active and comfortable. Some models offer advanced mobility features, such as climbing stairs, traversing rough terrain and helping users reach high areas without assistance.
• Computer adaptations: Computers can be challenging to use for those with restricted hand function. Fortunately, computer adaptations, from key guards to voice recognition software, are available to help.
• Electronic aids to daily living (EADLs): EADLs allow users to control almost any device that uses electricity. Those with SCIs can operate these systems using voice controls, switches or computer-based remotes.
• Electrical stimulation devices: Also known as functional electrical stimulation systems, these devices help control leg and arm muscles, allowing people with SCIs to reach, grip, stand and walk.

How to Prevent Spine Injuries

From fractures to SCIs, following these tips may help you prevent an injury to your spine:

• Drive carefully: Car crashes are a major cause of spinal injuries, so drive safely and always wear your seat belt.
• Assess water depth: Only dive into pools that are clearly marked as safe for diving. If you’re unsure of a body of water’s depth, walk or climb in.
• Avoid falls: If you need to reach high objects, use a step stool with a grab bar. Install handrails on stairways for added support, and place nonslip mats on tiled floors and in the tub or shower.
• Prioritize safety during sports: Wear the correct safety gear and take precautionary measures, such as avoiding leading with your head. For example, don’t slide headfirst in baseball, and avoid tackling with the top of your helmet in football.
• Never drink and drive: Refrain from driving after drinking alcohol or while under the influence of drugs. Similarly, avoid riding with a driver who is intoxicated.

Maintaining spine health is essential, as conditions like osteoporosis and disc degeneration can cause or increase the risk of spinal injuries. Good posture is a great habit to support your spine daily. When you sit, stand and walk, your spine should be tall and straight while preserving its natural curves. You should also keep your head above your shoulders, with your shoulders in line with your hips.

Daily stretching and movement are also vital for optimal spine health. While yoga and aerobic exercises like speed walking can be highly beneficial, be cautious with high-impact workouts like running, as these can cause or exacerbate back pain.

Treat Spine Injuries With Spine Institute of North America

If you suspect you or your loved one has a spinal injury, Spine Institute of North America is here to help. We are located in New Jersey and specialize in pain management and care for spine-related conditions. Our board-certified specialists provide thorough diagnoses and develop personalized care plans for our patients, helping them find relief and regain a better quality of life.

We’re the leaders in the least invasive spine treatments, such as kyphoplasty and vertebroplasty. However, we pride ourselves on offering an honest environment and discussing all available options to perform the most effective procedure — in some cases, this is open surgery.

Contact us to schedule a consultation or learn more about our services.