Spinal injuries can be life-threatening, so knowing how to act quickly and correctly in an emergency is vital. Whether you’re at home, at work, or outdoors, this guide will walk you through the key first aid steps and how to spot the signs of a spinal injury to help prevent further damage.
Spinal injuries happen when the spine or spinal cord is damaged, and they may lead to serious issues like paralysis. Because these injuries often happen without warning and can cause lasting disability, it’s vital to act quickly and correctly to prevent further harm. In the event of a spinal injury, understanding the importance of first aid training could mean the difference between recovery and permanent disability, or even life and death.
Understanding what to look for in a potential spinal injury can help you respond more effectively. Below are some of the most common symptoms to be aware of in such situations.
Spinal injuries often result from sudden, forceful events that impact the spine or the structure surrounding the spine. The most common causes include:
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If you suspect someone has a spinal injury, giving the right first aid can make a big difference. Follow these step-by-step instructions to protect their spine and keep them safe until emergency help arrives.
Steps | Action | Details |
1 | Reassure and keep still. | Tell the casualty not to move unless there’s immediate danger. Call 999 or 112, or ask someone else to call. |
2 | Support the head and neck. | Kneel behind their head. Hold both sides of the head with fingers spread (don’t cover ears). Keep head, neck, and spine aligned. |
3 | Use rolled blankets for support | Ask a helper to place rolled blankets/towels on either side of the head to keep it steady in a neutral position. |
4 | Monitor breathing and responsiveness | Keep checking their breathing and level of response while waiting for emergency services. |
5 | Open the airway with the jaw thrust | Place fingertips at the jaw angles and gently lift the jaw to open the airway; do not tilt the neck. |
6 | Check breathing for 10 seconds | Look, listen, and feel for breathing by placing your ear near their mouth and looking down their body. |
7 | If breathing | Continue supporting the head and monitor their breathing and response until help arrives. |
8 | If not breathing | Confirm emergency call, start CPR immediately (if trained), and ask for a defibrillator (AED) if available. |
In most cases of suspected spinal injury, the casualty should not be moved to avoid worsening the injury. However, if they’re unresponsive and not breathing normally, and you can’t maintain an open airway, you may need to place them in the recovery position. This involves gently rolling the person onto their side, keeping the head, neck, and spine aligned as much as possible, with the head tilted slightly to keep the airway open. In such emergencies, ensuring the casualty is breathing takes priority over spinal stability.
Preventing spinal injuries is about being mindful in everyday activities and making safe choices. Here are some simple steps you can take to protect your spine:
Not sure where to start? This infographic summarises the top four ways to protect your spine daily.
Knowing the signs of a spinal injury and how to respond quickly can help prevent serious harm. First aid training gives you the confidence to act fast in emergencies, and that can save lives. Simple everyday habits like wearing a seatbelt, lifting safely, and staying active all help protect your spine. A little care now can make a big difference later.
The recovery position keeps the airway clear in someone who is unconscious but breathing. It involves gently rolling them onto their side with their head tilted back. If a spinal injury is suspected, only use it if absolutely necessary, such as if they’re vomiting or having trouble breathing. You’ll learn how to respond safely in situations like this in our First Aid at Work course.
Don’t move them unless there’s an immediate danger. Avoid twisting their spine, removing helmets, or allowing them to sit up, stand, or walk, these actions could cause further harm.
Watch for neck or back pain, numbness, tingling, weakness, or difficulty moving limbs. Loss of sensation or control in the arms or legs can also be a sign. Always treat these symptoms seriously.
Keep the person still, support their head and neck, and call 999. Only move them if they’re in danger or their airway is blocked. Reassure them and monitor their breathing until help arrives.
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Here are some of our most popular first aid courses to help you stay prepared:
