What Are the Common Causes of Spinal Injuries?

A spinal injury is one that affects any part of the spinal cord or spinal column, including the vertebral bones, intervertebral discs, tendons, ligaments, or nerves. Spinal injuries may range from minor disc herniations to extremely debilitating fractures. While Dr. Perry with the Spine Institute Of Nevada specializes in the full spectrum of spine care and provides a number of treatment options, it is important to educate yourself on the common causes of spinal injuries.

Automobile Accidents

Spinal injuries are an extremely common result of motor vehicle accidents. In fact, studies by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention show that approximately 46 percent of all spinal cord injuries happen because of motor vehicle accidents. Common injuries sustained include herniated or slipped discs, compression fractures or cracks within the vertebral bones, and direct trauma to the spinal nerves leading into the brain.

Slip and Falls

Slip and fall accidents account for approximately 22 percent of all spinal cord injuries, according to the CDC. This statistic includes falls from heights among construction workers and manual laborers, as well as slips and falls among elderly individuals. Slip and fall spinal injuries may include vertebral fractures, pinched or severed nerves, and spondylolisthesis, a condition in which one of the vertebrae slides out of alignment and over an adjacent bone.

Physical Activities

In addition to car accidents and slip and fall accidents, spinal injuries may be caused by participating in certain physical activities or sports. Spinal injuries may occur during contact sports such as football, soccer, basketball, baseball, hockey, and rugby. Additional physical activities such as swimming, weight training, and boxing may also lead to a spinal injury.

Underlying Disease

In some cases, spinal injuries are the result of a spinal condition or disease such as osteoarthritis, osteoporosis, cancer, and spinal cord inflammation. In this case, your physician will need to address the underlying cause.

Don’t let a spinal injury leave you with chronic back or neck pain. Get the high-quality spine care you need by contacting Dr. Perry with the Spine Institute of Nevada online or at 702-239-3787. We provide care for all of your cervical, thoracic, and lumbar spine conditions.