First Aid Guides
Spinal injury
First aid for injuries to the neck or spine
A spinal injury involves damage to any part of the spinal cord, which may result in paralysis in the legs or arms.
If the injury is towards the top of the spine, breathing can also be affected.
Read more about causes, signs and symptoms.
Start with DRSABCD
D - Danger
Assess the area to ensure its safe for yourself, others and the patient. Only proceed to help them if its safe.
R - Response
Check for a response. You can do this by asking their name and squeezing their shoulders.
- If they do respond: Make them comfortable and continue to follow the steps in this guide
- If they don't respond: Send for help immediately (call Triple Zero 000) and follow the DRSABCD Action Plan
First aid for spinal injuries
If you suspect someone has a spinal injury, call Triple Zero (000) immediately.
Be extremely careful when moving them and make sure to support their head.
If the person is awake, follow the below steps:
Step 1: Rest and reassure
- Keep the person calm
- Reassure them that help is on its way
- If they aren't already, carefully lie them on their back
Step 2: Support their head
- Kneel by their head
- Rest your elbows on the knees or ground
- Hold either side of their head using your fingers without covering their ears
- Keep their head still to avoid any further damage to the area
Step 3: Support their neck
- Ask a person nearby to place rolled-up towels, blankets or clothing on either side of their head
- Hold this position until medical aid arrives
Step 4: Keep them company
- Stay with them until an ambulance arrives
- Monitor their symptoms to make sure they aren't getting worse
- Talk to them to keep them calm and help them stay awake
- If they lose consciousness, follow the DRSABCD Action Plan
