Spinal cord injury immediately changes the lives of injured persons and family members. However, in most cases, the injury can be managed, and the individual and family can learn to compensate for the loss of function. Lives can go on, differently perhaps, but they can be resumed with enthusiasm and purpose.

What is a traumatic spinal cord injury (SCI)?
What are the conditions of SCI?
What are common causes of SCI?
How can I prevent SCI?

For additional Frequently Asked Questions on spinal cord injury, visit the National Spinal Cord Injury Statistical Center.

What is a traumatic spinal cord injury (SCI)?
" Traumatic" in this case does not refer to emotions but to the mechanical cause of the injury. A traumatic spinal cord injury is an injury to or severance of the spinal cord caused by an external force, such as a blow to the spine or the penetration of the spinal cord by a projectile.

What are the conditions of SCI?
A spinal cord injury may result in partial or total paralysis of the arms or the legs, or in more severe conditions, both arms and legs. Depending on where the spinal cord is damaged, certain vital functions, such as respiration or waste elimination, may be impaired. People with SCI are at risk for several common subsequent problems – conditions that are made more likely because of the paralysis. Some examples include: respiratory and urinary infections, heart and blood pressure problems, skin breakdown (pressure sores), weight gain and even diabetes. Individuals with a spinal cord injury should pay special attention to any change in their bodily functions, however subtle, and should seek medical assistance immediately.

What are the common causes of SCI?
Most spinal cord injuries are motor vehicle-related, involving car, truck or bicycle crashes. Other major causes of injury are the result of violent intentional attacks and falls. Sports and recreation injuries and firearm accidents are also common causes of spinal cord injury.

How can I prevent spinal cord injury?
Some accidents are unavoidable. However, there are some things you can do to reduce your risk. The best way to prevent injury is simply to exercise diligent care in everything you do. Part of this effort is to make sure that you always use the proper protective equipment, such as wearing a seat belt when driving a car. Avoid unnecessary chances and don't put yourself in situations where you are at risk of serious injury. And, especially, don't drink alcohol when you're driving or participating in sports or other recreational activities. Think first. Then act.