Spinal Injuries

What Are Spinal Injuries?

This term refers to mechanical damage to elements of the spinal column resulting from external impact. Injuries can affect not only the vertebrae but also the surrounding ligaments, intervertebral discs, muscles, and nerve structures. In some cases, the consequences are minimal, but in severe cases, motor function loss may occur.

Types of Spinal Injuries

Spinal Cord Injuries

These are among the most severe and dangerous. They occur when the spinal cord or its membranes are damaged, potentially leading to sensory loss, paralysis, or dysfunction of pelvic organs. Even when the spine appears intact, compression or rupture of neural tissue must be ruled out.

Vertebral Fractures and Dislocations

These result from strong mechanical forces, often from traffic accidents or falls. The injury may be stable or unstable, with a risk of fragment displacement that threatens the spinal cord.

Compression Fractures

Characterized by the vertebral body being compressed. They are especially common in elderly people with osteoporosis. They lead to reduced height, posture deformity, and back pain.

Bone-Ligament Injuries

These affect the ligamentous apparatus, joints, and capsules. They may cause instability in the spinal segment, resulting in discomfort, limited movement, and pain. 

Causes of Spinal Injuries

The most common causes are road accidents, falls from heights, workplace and household accidents, and sports injuries. In the elderly, even minor falls can lead to fractures. Injuries may also occur due to sudden movements in individuals with weak muscle support or impaired coordination.

Symptoms and Signs of Spinal Injury

The symptoms vary depending on the location and severity of the injury:

• Sharp pain in the back or neck

• Restricted mobility

• Numbness or weakness in the limbs

• A "shooting" sensation during movement attempts

• Difficulty breathing (in thoracic injuries)

• Loss of sensation in certain body parts

The presence of even one of these signs requires immediate medical attention.

First Aid for Spinal Injuries

The injured person must not be moved before medical professionals arrive. Immobilization is critical, especially in the cervical and thoracic regions. The person should be carefully laid on a firm, flat surface. If possible, the head and torso should be stabilized. Any attempt to move the person can worsen the injury and cause irreversible damage.

Diagnosis of Spinal Injuries

Patient Examination

The first step is to assess the condition, identify pain points, deformities, and movement limitations. It's important to clarify how the injury occurred and whether there are accompanying symptoms.

Neurological Status Assessment

The doctor checks skin sensitivity, motor activity of the limbs, and reflexes. This helps determine whether the spinal cord or nerves are involved.

Instrumental Diagnosis

X-rays, CT scans, and MRI are used to determine the exact location and nature of the injury and identify hidden complications.

Treatment of Spinal Injuries

The treatment approach is chosen individually depending on the severity of the condition, age, and overall health.

Conservative Treatment

Suitable for stable injuries. It includes:

• Wearing a brace or corset

• Rest and activity restrictions

• Pain and anti-inflammatory medications

• Therapeutic physical exercise and physiotherapy

Surgical Treatment

Indicated for unstable fractures, dislocations, or spinal cord compression. The goal of surgery is to stabilize the damaged segment, decompress the nerve structures, and restore anatomy. Procedures can be open or minimally invasive. 

Rehabilitation After Spinal Injury

Stages of Rehabilitation

Rehabilitation begins immediately after the condition is stabilized. The first stage focuses on restoring basic functions and preventing complications. Active physical therapy and self-care skill recovery follow.

Goals of Rehabilitation

• Restore mobility

• Strengthen muscles

• Improve coordination

• Adapt to new conditions (in cases of residual impairments)

Rehabilitation Methods

Include:

• Individually tailored therapeutic exercise

• Physiotherapy (magnetotherapy, electrical stimulation, etc.)

• Massage

• Support from a psychologist and occupational therapist

Rehabilitation helps the patient return to an active lifestyle and improve quality of life.

Prevention of Spinal Injuries

Injury prevention involves observing safety rules, strengthening the muscle corset, proper workstation organization, and moderate physical activity. It's important to avoid sudden movements, excessive loads, and undergo regular check-ups—especially for those with chronic musculoskeletal conditions.

Consequences of Spinal Injuries

With timely treatment and rehabilitation, full recovery and return to normal life are possible. However, in severe cases, persistent neurological disorders, gait and sensation disturbances, chronic pain syndrome, or disability may occur. That’s why early diagnosis, proper therapy, and strict adherence to rehabilitation guidelines are essential.

How MARUS Helps Patients

The MARUS platform helps international patients access high-quality spinal injury treatment in Russia. We partner with leading clinics that offer advanced diagnostic methods, conservative and surgical treatments, and post-traumatic rehabilitation.

We select the right medical center, coordinate the entire process—from the first consultation to rehabilitation—handle document translation, logistics, visa assistance, and provide language support.

Treatment of spinal injuries with MARUS means access to modern healthcare, reliable support, and attention at every step of the patient’s journey.