Football and sledding injuries often involve sharp blows or abnormal twisting and bending of the back or neck and can result in spinal-cord trauma. Use caution when sledding and inspect the area for obstacles. Use appropriate techniques and equipment when playing football or other contact sports. Falls while climbing at work or during recreation can result in spinal-cord injuries. Defensive driving practices and improved vehicular design may prevent many automotive accidents, and use of seat belts greatly reduces the risk of serious injury if there is an automobile accident.
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.