Risk Factors For Spinal Cord Injury

Although a spinal cord injury is usually the result of an unexpected accident that can happen to anyone, certain factors may predispose you to a higher risk of sustaining a spinal cord injuring, including:

• Being a man. Spinal cord injuries affect a disproportionate amount of men. In fact, women account for only about 20 percent of spinal cord injuries in the United States.
• Being between the ages of 16 to 30. You’re most likely to suffer a spinal cord injury if you’re between the ages 16 and 30. Motor vehicle crashes are the leading cause of spinal cord injuries for people under 65, while falls cause most injuries in older adults.
• Being active in certain sports. While being active is one of the best things you can do for your overall health, it may place you at greater risk of a spinal cord injury. Athletic activities that may increase your risk of a spinal cord injury include football, rugby, wrestling, gymnastics, horseback riding, diving, surfing, roller-skating, in-line skating, ice hockey, downhill skiing and snowboarding.
• Having an underlying bone or joint disorder. A relatively minor injury can cause a spinal cord injury if you have another disorder that affects your bones or joints, such as arthritis or osteoporosis.

McClellan Family Chiropractic is dedicated to the health of our community. Call us today for a free spinal exam and consultation regarding the risk factors for spinal injury.