Spinal Cord Injury

hyperflexion: head suddenly & forcefully moved forward ie: car accident, diving accident

hyperextension: head suddenly forward then backward ie: whiplash, diving, jumping

axial loading: vertical compression ie: blow to top of head

excessive rotation: turned head too far

penetration by object ie: knife, bullet

worsens primary injury

• hemorrhage
• ischemia
• hypovolemia
• neurogenic shock

• damage to anterior cord
• motor function and pain & temp sensation lost below injury
• touch, position & vibration sensation intact

• damage to posterior cord
• vibration, touch & position sensation lost
• motor function, pain & temp sensation intact

• from penetrating injuries
• motor function, proprioception, vibration & deep touch sensations lost on same side of body

• Trauma is leading cause
• how injured
• location of injury
• changes resulting from injury
• ABC's