How is an 'axial load' injury sustained?

An 'axial load' injury is primarily sustained through direct compression of the spine. This type of injury occurs when the spine experiences significant downward force, which can result from incidents such as falls or diving accidents. During these events, the weight of the body forces down onto the spine, leading to potential fractures or other serious injuries in the vertebrae or spinal cord.

Given that axial loading involves vertical compression along the axis of the spine, it is essential to understand that it's specifically associated with situations where the body directly impacts the ground or another surface in a manner that subjects the spine to this type of load. Other mechanisms, such as twisting motions or sharp impacts from different angles, do not primarily cause axial load injuries; instead, they might result in different types of spinal injuries that involve other forces or movements.