Injury to the spinal cord (the nerves that carry most messages from the brain to the body and vice versa) in the neck or back.
Alternative Names
Neck/spinal injury; Spinal cord injury
Prevention
Regular exercise , good posture, and lifting heavy objects correctly (letting your leg muscles do most of the work) all help prevent back problems.
Wear seat belts. Avoid alcohol with driving. Avoid diving into pools, lakes, rivers and surf, particularly if you cannot determine the depth of the water, or if the water is not clear. Avoid motorcycles and all-terrain vehicles. Avoid "spearing" (tackling with head) Back pain , if it occurs, should be discussed with the doctor.