World Spinal Cord Injury Day: Experts Call for Greater Awareness, Prevention and Timely Care
Jaipur, 5th September 2026: A road accident, a fall from height, or a serious sports injury can change a person’s life in seconds. Damage to the spinal cord can affect movement, sensation, and even basic bodily functions, leaving some patients with long-term disability. As the world marks Spinal Cord Injury Day, doctors are urging greater attention to prevention, safe practices, and timely medical care to reduce the impact of such injuries.
“Spinal cord injuries can be life-changing, and how a person is handled immediately after an accident matters enormously,” said Dr. Tarun Dusad, Spine Surgeon – Orthopaedics at Fortis Escorts Hospital, Jaipur. “If someone develops severe neck or back pain, numbness, weakness, or trouble moving their limbs, they shouldn’t be moved unnecessarily. Careful handling and early medical assessment can prevent further neurological damage and improve the odds of recovery.”
*What causes spinal cord injuries?*
Road traffic accidents and falls remain the leading causes of traumatic spinal cord injury. Workplace accidents, falls from height, and sports injuries also take a toll. In some cases, spinal cord damage isn’t the result of trauma at all — tumours, infections, vascular conditions, and other medical disorders can be behind it.
Globally, the World Health Organization estimates that more than 15 million people are living with a spinal cord injury, with road crashes and falls among the biggest contributors.
*What are the warning signs?*
Severe neck or back pain following an accident, weakness or inability to move the limbs, numbness or loss of sensation, difficulty breathing, and loss of bladder or bowel control are all red flags that call for immediate medical attention.
*Who’s most at risk?*
Two-wheeler riders, frequent travellers, construction workers, people who work at heights, older adults prone to falls, and those who play high-impact sports face a greater risk of spinal injury.
How can you protect your spine?
• Always wear a helmet or seat belt, and follow road safety rules.
• Use proper safety equipment at high-risk worksites.
• Keep homes and workplaces free of fall hazards.
• Avoid moving an injured person if a spinal injury is suspected.
• Get immediate medical care after any major trauma.
• Stick to prescribed rehabilitation and physiotherapy after an injury to aid recovery and independence.