How to Treat a Spinal Injury

How to Treat a Spinal Injury

How to Treat a Spinal Injury

Treatments for spinal injuries vary depending on the type, severity, and location of the injury itself. In emergency situations, doctors can normally rule out spinal injuries just by examining a patient’s movement and sensory function.

Someone who shows signs of potential spinal injury needs emergency attention. Signs include:

  • Neck Pain
  • Signs of Weakness
  • Signs of Neurological Injury
  • Back Pain
  • Failure to Maintain Consciousness

These signs are grounds for more serious tests and treatments, and you should seek the treatment of a trained orthopedic surgeon in Altamonte Springs. Nothing can really be done to undo spinal cord damage. There are several studies and treatments in the works that will one day help mend spinal cords of previous damage.

So, how do you treat a spinal cord injury? By prevention of further damage and keeping an active lifestyle. There are medications that can help reduce pain and inflammation, but there is no fixing it. There is also, in extreme cases, surgery. Surgery is often saved as a last and only resort.

Emergency Care

If you are in a position where there is an accident and you suspect someone of having a spinal injury, do not move them. Don't remove helmets, don't lift them, don't sit them up, don't move them. Make sure you inform emergency services and realize that medical attention for spinal injuries start at the scene of the accident.

In the early stages of treatment for spinal injuries, doctors will focus on preserving your ability to breathe, immobilizing the neck, preventing shock, and avoiding further complications.

If you are the one with the spinal injury, you can expect to go to the intensive care unit. This kind of injury may require specialists and professionals who have expertise in spinal injuries.

Self-Care Treatments

There isn't much someone can do to treat their own spinal injury. If you ever find yourself injured and believe it to be your neck or spine, the best thing to do is not move. You want to prevent the risk of causing any more damage than already done.

Over-the-Counter Medications

Pain is managed by over-the-counter medicines. Also, after you provide ample time for the spinal cord injury to heal, you want to have an active lifestyle within your means. Do not over do the physical activity. That being said, you don't want to sit in bed all the time either. Make sure you are careful when you are suffering or recovering from a spinal injury.

If you are being stubborn with a spinal injury, seek the medical attention of an orthopedic surgeon in Altamonte Springs. 90% of the time, any injury to the head, neck, or spine needs to be seen by a medical professional. Contact us to schedule your consultation or come to our walk-in clinic today.