Spinal cord injuries are caused when there is damage to the nerve cells which make up the spinal cord. The spinal cord is 17 inches long and extends from the brain to the low back. It is protected by the backbone, which is made up of 33 vertebrae. Discs cushion each vertebrae during movement. However, if the disc is damaged, the soft rubbery center bulges or ruptures from its proper place, causing it to press on the nerves producing severe pain. Symptoms may include: sudden neck or back ache; inability to straighten neck or back without pain; numbness, tingling or weakness in arms; pain radiating to legs; muscle weakness; or bladder problems.

Spinal cord injuries may be caused as a result of an automobile accident, slip and fall accident, diving accident, sports related accident, or other type of trauma. Many people suffer whiplash each year and may not realize they have suffered a spinal cord injury.