The spinal column is a complex web of nerves and bones that runs vertically along the back of the human body. The nerves within the spinal cord allow messages to be sent back and forth between the brain and various parts of the body, such as the stomach or the legs. An injury to the spine can be life-threatening and can cause a number of symptoms. If you experience any of the symptoms of a spinal injury, speak with your doctor as soon as possible to avoid the possibility of permanent damage.
Pain
If you sustain an injury to your spine, pain can develop at the site of injury or can spread along the spinal column. Pain is particularly common in patients who only partially damage the nerves within the spinal cord, which is often referred to as an incomplete spinal injury, according to the Chicago Institute of Neurosurgery and Neuroresearch. Depending on the severity of the injury, the pain can be mild or severe.
Weakness
An injury to the spinal cord can interfere with the transfer of nerve signals from the spine to other parts of the body. If this occurs, muscle or limb weakness can develop as a symptom of a spinal injury. Muscle weakness caused by a spinal injury can make standing or walking difficult.
Decreased Sensation
A spinal cord injury can interrupt sensory nerve signals sent from the spine, which can cause decreased sensation within feet, legs, trunk, hands or arms. If this occurs, a prickling or pins-and-needles sensation can develop within the affected limbs.
Loss of Excretory Control
The nerves within the spinal column are also in charge of transmitting signals to the digestive and urinary tracts. If significant nerve damage occurs within the spinal column after an injury, these signaling capabilities can be lost. As a result, difficulty regulating the flow of urine (urinary incontinence) or the excretion of feces (fecal incontinence) can result.
Paralysis
If a severe spinal injury occurs, the nerves within the spine could be severed. When that occurs, all sensation below the point of injury is lost. People with complete spinal cord injuries typically develop some form or paralysis, which is a medical condition characterized by the inability to move a certain region of the body. An injury that occurs near the top of the spine can cause complete paralysis in all limbs below the neck. Such injuries mean you could be permanently unable to walk.
