Spinal Trauma and the Holidays

The holiday season is a time of celebration, joy and gatherings with family and friends. However, it can also be a period fraught with risks and hazards that may lead to spinal trauma. From winter sports to decorating mishaps, various factors contribute to spinal injuries during this festive time. How can you stay safe?

Holiday Season Injury Risks

Dr. Sina Rajamand and his team at Battle Born Brain and Spine in Reno, NV, explore some common causes of spinal trauma during the holidays.

Winter Sports

Many people take advantage of the winter months to engage in activities like skiing, snowboarding and ice skating. While these sports are fun and exhilarating, they can also lead to serious spinal injuries. Almost 200,000 people were treated at hospitals, doctor’s offices and emergency rooms for injuries related to winter sports in 2018. Falls, collisions and improper technique can result in strains, fractures or even more severe injuries to the spine.

Decorating Accidents

Hanging holiday decorations can bring joy and excitement, but it also poses hazards, especially when using ladders and tall equipment. About 160 Christmas decorating-related injuries occur each day during the holiday season, with over 40% of the incidents involving falls. Falls from heights or awkward movements while reaching for decorations can lead to significant spinal injuries.

Back Strain from Lifting

Holiday preparations often involve lifting heavy items, such as gifts, boxes of decorations or shopping bags filled with goodies. Lifting improperly or overexerting yourself can result in muscle strains or injuries to the spine.

Slips and Falls

During winter, ice and snow create hazardous walking conditions. Slipping on ice or fallen snow can lead to serious injuries, including spinal damage. The CDC reports an increase in slip and fall accidents each year during the holiday season.

Increased Stress and Fatigue

The hustle and bustle of the holiday season can lead to increased stress and fatigue. Both can have a detrimental effect on your physical well-being, making you more susceptible to accidents. Stress can impair focus, while fatigue can decrease coordination, increasing the chance of a fall or other injury.

Reno, NV, Spinal Cord Injury Treatment

While the holiday season is a time for joy and celebration, it’s essential to be aware of the potential risks and take precautions to protect your spinal health. Trauma or injury to the spinal cord or its associated nerves can result in a variety of symptoms, including pain, diminished strength and mobility, numbness, paralysis and impaired bodily functions. The specific effects experienced depend on the location of the injury, as different areas of the spinal cord control different bodily functions.

For those seeking treatment for spinal injuries in Reno or Carson City, Dr. Sina Rajamand, a skilled neurosurgeon at Battle Born Brain and Spine, is available to provide expert care. Contact us today to schedule an exam and consultation if you have suffered a holiday-related accident injury to your back, neck or spine.