Nearly 12,000 people suffer a spinal cord injury each year in the U.S., according to the National Spinal Cord Injury Statistical Center. Further, the center reports that an estimated 262,000 people in the U.S. have existing spinal cord injuries. Even with the utmost care, spinal cord injuries are not always preventable. Nevertheless, measures can be implemented to reduce risks.
Car Safety
Car accidents are the leading source of spinal cord injuries for people under the age of 65, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. To minimize risks of spinal cord injuries while traveling in a motor vehicle, the National Center for Injury Prevention and Control recommends that all car passengers wear a seat belt. Children should be securely fastened in an age- and weight-appropriate child safety seat. Further, children under 12 years of age should never ride in the front seat due to potential injury from air bag deployment. Other car safety measures include not driving while under the influence of drugs or alcohol, as well as not riding as a passenger with a driver under the influence.
Home Safety
Falls in the home are a significant cause of spinal cord injuries experienced among people ages 65 and older, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. As of 2010, the National Spinal Cord Injury Statistical Center reports that the percentage of spinal cord injuries due to falls has increased. To reduce at-home risks, people can ensure that banister and handrails along stairwells are secured to the wall tightly. Further, the National Center for Injury Prevention and Control recommends non-slip mats and grab bars in the bathtub and shower, wearing non-slip shoes and removing objects in the home that pose tripping risks.
Sports and Recreational Safety
In 2010, sports and recreational activities accounted for 7.9 percent of spinal cord injuries, according to the National Spinal Cord Injury Statistical Center. In fact, the proportion of injuries due to sports has declined over time. The National Center for Injury Prevention and Control recommends wearing helmets while playing ice hockey, football, baseball and softball to minimize the risk of spinal cord injuries. Further, helmets should be worn while horseback riding, skiing, snowboarding, rollerskating, in-line skating, skateboarding and while riding a bike, scooter or motorcycle. The center also cautions against head-first moves, such as tackling or diving in shallow waters.
Gun Safety
According to the National Spinal Cord Injury Statistical Center, gunshot wounds are a significant source of spinal cord injuries. The National Center for Injury Prevention and Control advises that firearms should be stored unloaded in a locked cabinet with bullets kept in a separate location.
