If you suspect a back or neck (spinal) injury,
do not move the affected person. Permanent paralysis and other serious complications can result. Assume a person has a spinal injury if:
- There's evidence of a head injury with an ongoing change in the person's level of consciousness
- The person complains of severe pain in his or her neck or back
- An injury has exerted substantial force on the back or head
- The person complains of weakness, numbness, or paralysis or lacks control of his or her limbs, bladder or bowels
- The neck or body is twisted or positioned oddly