Do Not Move Unnecessarily
Keep the injured person still. Avoid twisting the neck or back. Only move if there is immediate danger (fire, traffic).
Emergency Guidance
Pre Hospital Care After Spine Trauma
First steps that protect the spine before hospital arrival.
Key Takeaway
Keep the injured person still and call emergency help — careful handling protects the spinal cord before hospital arrival.
After a fall, road accident, or sports injury, careful handling can prevent further spinal cord damage. Follow these principles until trained help arrives.
Call Emergency Services
Contact emergency responders promptly and share details of the mechanism of injury and any neurological symptoms.
Support Head & Neck
If trained, maintain in-line cervical stabilization. Do not remove a helmet unless airway access is required.
Monitor Breathing
Ensure the airway is open and breathing is adequate. Watch for chest movement and skin color changes.
Avoid Sitting Up
Do not help the person sit, walk, or stretch. Wait for proper spinal immobilization equipment.
Share Key History
Note loss of consciousness, limb weakness, bowel/bladder changes, and time of injury for the hospital team.
Warning signs after trauma
- Neck or back pain after impact
- Inability to move arms or legs
- Numbness or tingling
- Breathing difficulty
- Loss of bladder or bowel control
Seek specialist spine care urgently after trauma