24 july 2023 Accidents that can happen when diving are related to injuries to the spine and spinal cord and can have serious consequences. The spinal cord is part of the central nervous system and is a bundle of nerves responsible for carrying sensory information to the brain and motor information from the brain. It is found inside the spinal canal, which protects it. Diving-associated injuries are effects on the spine and spinal cord due, most often, to the impact of the head on the ground, or elsewhere, when diving headfirst. However, a strong impact when diving feet first or in any other position can also have consequences. These impacts can result in displacement or fracture of vertebrae and spinal cord injuries, eventually its complete section. Cord injuries interfere with the conduction of nerve impulses. Therefore, the sequelae of spinal cord injuries can range from mild numbness to irreversible paralysis of the lower limbs or all four limbs in higher injuries, or may even result in death. Even in less severe cases and without neurological damage (of the spinal cord or nerves), treatment may involve rest, use of cervical collars or braces and surgery. The most serious cases require emergency surgery. Dive safely When you want to dive, you have to take basic precautions and plan your dive. For this you have to take into account: Water depth: Do not dive in shallow waters, either at the beach or in swimming pools; A depth of at least twice your height is safe. Obstacles in the water: Do not dive when you are not sure the area is clear; Rocks, sand, stakes or other objects are the main obstacles to consider and which may not be visible. Height from which you dive: The greater the height from which one dives, the greater the speed at which you enter the water, and therefore, the greater the depth of water necessary for the dive to be safe. Diving position: Diving headfirst is the most frequent cause of injuries; Do not dive headfirst into the seaside, close to the breaking waves, always walk first into the water; Avoid diving backwards and running; Do not dive close to the wall of a pool or towards it. Where to dive: Do not dive into tanks and channels or other water reservoirs or places that are not intended for bath; Dive only on supervised beaches and pools; Obey any existing signs prohibiting diving; Do not dive in poorly lit places. Do not dive if you have been drinking alcohol. Most diving-related accidents happen to people who have been drinking alcohol. Spinal cord injury signs and symptoms After a dive, spinal cord injury may be suspected in presence of the following signs and symptoms: Loss of strength; Numbness or inability to move your arms or legs; Loss of sphincter control (inability to control the elimination of urine or faeces); Fainting or altered state of consciousness; Breathing difficulty. What to do When you witness an accident or suspect a spinal injury, you should: Immediately contact the emergency service (in Portugal 112); Keep the person still until the emergency medical team arrives, as any movement could cause more serious and permanent damage. Always remember Diving is a frequent cause of accidents, particularly during the summer season and are more common in children and adolescents: Raising awareness of these dangers from an early age is an important preventive measure. The supervision of the youngest during water activities on beaches and pools is essential. Author: João Maia Gonçalves The content published in the Health Guide is intended for the general public and is provided for informational and educational purposes only. It does not replace individual medical assessment, diagnosis, or personalized clinical advice from a qualified healthcare professional. The content is produced or reviewed by physicians and other healthcare professionals at Hospital da Luz and is based on the knowledge available at the time of publication or the most recent update, as indicated at the beginning of each item.
