Your spine runs from the base of the skull to your pelvis (fixed bone). Damage to the spinal column (either to the vertebrae or cartilage) can cause.

• An unusual curvature of the spine
• Pain at the site of the injury
• Tenderness to the skin
• One leg looks longer than the other

When the spinal cord is damaged the casualty will:

• Lose control over limb movement
• Lose sensation of the limbs
• Lose control of their bladder
• Have breathing difficulties

TREATMENT

If the casualty is no immediate danger they should not be moved.

• Call for an ambulance immediately
• Monitor their breathing and response levels
• Be prepared to resuscitate