Preventing Spinal Cord Injuries: Protecting Young & Elderly Lives - Dr Ankur Nanda

The impact of a spinal cord injury (SCI) can be devastating, with an extended lack of bodily functions leading to an irreversible disability resulting in severe changes in the quality of life.

While no one is immune to accidents, youth and elderly individuals are more susceptible to spinal cord injury due to differing risks. Understanding those risks and working proactively can greatly reduce the likelihood one experiencing a spinal cord injury.

Protecting Young People

Young people, especially adolescents and young adults, take part in more high-energy activities than other age groups, leading to a much higher chance of spinal cord injuries (SCIs). The most common causes of SCI among young people stem from road traffic accidents, sports accidents, and falls.

Suggestions for staying safe

* Road Safety: Vehicle accidents are the leading cause of SCI in this age range. Always buckle your seatbelt, keep your eyes on the road (no texting and driving), and always wear a helmet if riding a motorcycle, bicycle, or scooter. Encourage your friends to wear helmets as well. Following the rules of the road is not just about getting a ticket—it can save your life.

* Sports & Recreation: A large number of SCIs occur while playing sports. Whenever you play a sport, use verified techniques to tackle, and always follow the rules. If you are involved in gymnastics/diving, do not try a skill beyond your capabilities. Use only certified coaches and ensure that all equipment is routinely checked for safety, is maintained in good condition, and is used appropriately.

* Safe Diving: Do not dive into water of unknown depth. Always check the depth, common submerged obstacles (for example, submerged rocks or logs) and other hazards before you focus on diving. A shallow dive over a submerged rock can all too easily give you a life-altering injury.

Protecting Seniors

Falls are the leading cause of spinal cord injury (SCI) in older adults. As people age, bone density declines (such as with osteoporosis), and physical abilities like balance, vision, and reflexes also decline, putting them at risk for more frequent and dangerous falls.

* Home Safety: Make one's home into a safe zone. Eliminate any trip hazard (e.g., loose rugs, clutter). Install handrails on either side of staircases. Install non-slip mats in bathrooms, and consider installing grab bars around toilets and in showers. Adequate lighting, particularly on stairs and in hallways, is important.

* Physical Activity: Regular low-impact exercise can decrease fall risk through the improvement of balance, flexibility, and strength. Tai Chi, walking, and swimming are all safe, low-impact activities. Speak with a physician or physical therapist for personalized exercise recommendations.

* Health Management: Keep your prescriptions up to date and take them as prescribed. Some medications will cause dizziness and/or drowsiness, increasing the risk of a fall among the elderly. Discuss with your physician any problematic side effects. Lastly, have regular eye exams to ensure proper vision.

* Footwear: Ensure shoes have proper traction and support. Avoid slippers or shoes that have slick soles likely to cause slips.

General Prevention Suggestions

Regardless of your age, prevention is relevant to everyone.

* Lift with Proper Techniques: When lifting objects of weight, you bend with your knees and not your waist. Lift with your legs and keep the load close to you.

* Hydrate and Nourish: A balanced diet that consists of calcium and vitamin D can help maintain healthy bones. Staying hydrated helps keep muscles and nerves working efficiently.

* Watch Where You're Going: Always pay attention to where you are walking. Be cautious of uneven pavement, wet floors, and other potential obstacles.

Prevention of a spinal cord injury is a group effort. Simple and practical handling and caring can protect everyone from injury and illness, leading to healthier, happier outcomes for everyone.

Disclaimer: The views expressed in this article are of the author and not of Health Dialogues. The Editorial/Content team of Health Dialogues has not contributed to the writing/editing/packaging of this article.