The spinal cord is one of the most important parts of human anatomy, responsible for transmitting messages between the brain and the rest of the body. Spinal cord injuries or SCIs can have severe and lifelong consequences, affecting a person’s mobility as well as organ function. However, many spinal cord injuries are preventable through awareness, education, and simple precautions. Here are some important tips on how to avoid spinal cord injuries:
1. Practice Safe Driving
Motor vehicle accidents are a leading cause of spinal cord injuries. Always wear your seatbelt while driving or riding in a car. Make sure children are properly secured in age-appropriate car seats or booster seats. Avoid distractions while driving, such as texting or using your phone. Follow traffic rules and never drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
2. Prevent Falls
Falls are another common cause of spinal cord injuries, especially among older adults. To prevent falls, make sure your living environment is free of tripping hazards. Install grab bars in bathrooms and railings on stairs. Use nonslip mats in the shower or bathtub. Always be cautious when using ladders or step stools.
3. Play Sports Safely
Participating in sports is a great way to stay active and healthy, but it is also important to play safely. Always wear appropriate protective gear for your sport, such as helmets, pads, and mouthguards. Follow the rules of the game and avoid rough or dangerous play. If you experience a head or neck injury while playing sports, seek medical attention immediately.
4. Swim Responsibly
Diving into shallow water can result in serious spinal cord injuries. Always check the depth of the water before diving and never dive headfirst into unknown waters. When swimming in natural bodies of water, be cautious of rocks, logs, or other hidden obstacles. Always supervise children around water and make sure they are using appropriate flotation devices.
5. Lift Heavy Objects Carefully
Improper lifting techniques can lead to back and spinal cord injuries. When lifting heavy objects, bend your knees and keep your back straight. Use your legs to lift the load, rather than putting strain on your back. Ask for help if an object is too heavy to lift alone.
You can reduce your risk of spinal cord injuries by following these suggestions. However, many scenarios that lead to SCI accidents are unpredictable and uncontrollable. It is important to understand what to do if you sustain a spinal cord injury, even if you were taking preventative measures to avoid them at the time.
At Barber & Associates, we have spent years helping the victims of spinal cord injuries recover compensation to pay for medical treatment and other costs. Give us a call today to see how we can help!