What is the primary mechanism of injury in most spinal cord injuries?

The primary mechanism of injury in most spinal cord injuries is trauma such as a fall. This is because traumatic events, whether they occur from high-impact accidents like motor vehicle collisions, falls, or sports accidents, can result in significant physical damage to the spinal cord. These types of injuries often lead to fractures or dislocations of the vertebrae, which can then impinge on or sever the spinal cord itself.

In contrast, while repetitive strain injuries can lead to issues with the spine over time, they are not primary mechanisms for acute spinal cord injuries. Sports-related injuries can fall under the broader category of trauma, but not all sports injuries lead to spinal cord injuries—many are minor or involve different areas of the body. Degenerative diseases, on the other hand, typically lead to slow-onset or chronic issues rather than the acute trauma associated with spinal cord injuries. Thus, trauma from falls and similar incidents is the most common and significant factor contributing to spinal cord injuries.