Spinal-cord trauma can cause death in some cases. About 10,000 of these people are permanently paralyzed, and many of the rest die as a result of their injuries. Most spinal-cord trauma occurs to young, healthy individuals. Males between 15 and 35 years old are most commonly affected. Symptoms Symptoms vary somewhat depending on the location of the injury.
Partial injuries are uncommon.
If only one side of the spinal cord is injured, paralysis may occur on only one side of the body although sensation changes may occur on either or both sides. A neurologic examination indicates the level of the spinal-cord injury if the location is not immediately evident. The reflexes may be abnormal or may be absent in affected areas of the body. There may be some recovery of reflexes after swelling has subsided. Muscle spasticity is common.