Sports-related injuries are responsible for a large portion of spinal cord injury, especially in children and teenagers. Sports-related spinal cord injury can be the result of a fall or a blow that damages a portion of the spinal cord. Typically, the athlete has some degree of paralysis below the point of injury.
Sports Associated with Spinal Cord Injury
While any sport in which you can fall, slip, or be struck by another participant puts you at risk for spinal cord injury, there is a higher rate of incidence in some sports than in others. Sports associated with spinal cord injury include:
- Gymnastics
- Hockey
- Football
- Skiing and Snowboarding
- Motorcycle racing
Preventing Sports-Related Spinal Cord Injury
While there is a certain amount of risk inherent in every sport, the best way to guard against sports-related injury is to remain well conditioned, and to wear any necessary protective equipment. Spending time on correct technique, participating only when you are well rested, and focusing on both strength and flexibility will help athletes remain safe.