In Case of Neck Injury

The spectrum of neck injuries ranges from simple muscle spasms and strains to devastating, life-changing spinal cord injury. Spinal cord injury is caused by a broken neck or back, and results in loss of sensation and movement. Depending upon where in the neck or back the injury occurs, the person sustaining the injury might be paralyzed in the lower body (paraplegic) or both the upper and lower body (quadriplegic). The effects of the injury occur below the site of the injury itself.

On Sunday, the Buffalo Bills played the Denver Broncos, and unfortunately one of the players sustained a serious neck injury that compressed his spinal cord, while tackling an opponent. Bill’s player Kevin Everett underwent surgery, but his doctor does not think it is likely he will regain full movement of his body, according to news sources. About.com's Football guide, James Adler has more information on Kevin's progress.

Update: Everett defied the doctor's projection by regaining use of his arms and legs, and walking without assistance. On May 13, 2008, Everett was released from the Buffalo Bills, allowing him to receive disability payments.

According to the CDC, about 200,000 people in the US live with spinal cord injury disability, with about 11,000 new cases occurring each year. Eighteen percent of cases are caused by sports and recreation mishaps.

While it is important to get a victim of a neck injury to the emergency room immediately, it is even more important to use the Red Cross first aid guidelines when moving or transporting them. Take a moment to review what to do in case of a neck injury. Don't be caught off-guard.

| Spinal Cord Injury | Sprains | Neck Injuries | Exercising with SCI