If you have any of the symptoms above or have any reason to think you might have injured your spine, it is imperative that you seek medical treatment immediately. In many cases, waiting on medical care can cause the injury to worsen significantly. For severe spinal cord injuries, it is imperative that the victim is immobilized to prevent further injury. Diagnostic tests for spinal cord injuries may include a CT scan, MRI, or X-ray. These tests can allow the doctor to check for any abnormalities along the spinal cord. Following these initial tests, a follow-up neurological exam will likely be scheduled for a few days after the accident. This allows any swelling to subside, giving the physician a better chance at an accurate diagnosis. The physician will test sensory functions, strength, muscle movement, and reflexes at this time, noting any deficiencies.