Spinal Cord Injuries - How to Evaluate a Spinal Injury

Treatment of potential spinal cord injuries begins at the accident scene with proper spinal mobilization. Motor function in spinal shock is characterized by flacid paralysis, whereas in neurogenic shock, hypo valemic shock, motor function is variable slash independent. Decubitous ulcers can occur after only 30 to 60 minutes on a backboard. helmets and shoulder pads should be left on until arrival at the hospital, or until experienced personnel can perform simultaneous removal of the helmet and shoulder pads in a controlled situation. Spine board should be used for transport only,. patients should be removed when clinically safe.