Sudden, temporary loss or impairment of spinal function below the level of injury that occurs after an acute spinal cord injury - physiological reaction
Secondary injury (ischaemia and infection)can also result in spinal shock
May last days to weeks
Characteristics - paralysis (initially flaccid), absent reflexes, impaired bowel and bladder control and absent anal sphincter tone
Persistent neurological impairment may indicate anatomical spinal cord injury
Spinal fractures are common injuries caused by trauma, osteoporosis, or other underlying medical conditions:
Cancer
Infection
Arthritis
Risk factors for sustaining a spinal fracture include:
