The National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke notes that each year, an estimated 10,000 to 12,000 spinal injuries occur in the United States. Part of the central nervous system, the spinal cord contains nerves, such as sensory and motor nerves, that relay information between the brain and body. When the spinal cord is injured, that communication becomes disrupted. Certain incidents can cause a spinal injury, which can lead to serious health problems.
Accidents
People who are involved in serious accidents can suffer a spinal injury. MayoClinic.com notes that motor vehicle accidents are the leading cause, accounting for 40 percent of all spinal injury cases. The accident can result from high speed or a person not wearing proper protection. Substance use can also play a role. For example, the MayoClinic.com points out that for one in every four spinal injuries, someone consumed alcohol. With a motor vehicle accident, the victim can sustain a direct impact to the spinal cord or head, which causes the injury.
Other types of accidents can also lead to a spinal cord injury. In people over the age of 65, falling is the most common cause of a spinal injury. MayoClinic.com adds that falling accounts for 25 percent of spinal injury cases. Patients may fall a great distance, such as off a ladder, which can severely damage the spinal cord. Another cause is sport injuries, which the MayoClinic.com notes accounts for 8 percent of cases. A person may have a spinal injury after falling on her head or sustaining an impact to her head. A diving accident can also result in a spinal injury.
Violence
Violent incidents can lead to a spinal injury. For example, a person can become involved in a fight with the other person striking them in the back. MedlinePlus points out that a bullet or stab wound can also cause a spinal injury.
Diseases
Certain diseases can cause a spinal injury. For example, osteoporosis, which causes the patient's bones to become weak, can cause damage to the spine. Arthritis patients may also develop a spinal injury. MayoClinic.com lists cancer and inflammation of the spinal cord as other possible causes.
Other Causes of Injury
Other situations can also cause a spinal injury. For example, an electric shock can damage the spinal cord. A person can sustain an electric shock while working with electricity or by being struck by lightening. MedlinePlus adds that a person who twists his middle body to an extreme can develop a spinal injury, as the force and extent of twisting can damage the spinal vertebrae.
