Spinal cord injuries (SCIs) occur as the result of a sudden and significant trauma to the spine. SCIs most often occur as a result of the following:

• Automobile accidents
• Acts of violence (e.g., gunshot wounds)
• Falls
• Injuries sustained during sports and other activities (especially diving)

The most common causes of SCIs vary, depending on age. For people under the age of 65, automobile accidents cause most SCIs. In adults 65 and older, accidental falls are the primary cause of SCIs.

SCIs may also result from conditions such as arthritis, blood vessel problems or bleeding, cancer, infections, inflammation, and spinal disc degeneration.

Men are much more likely to experience SCIs than women. According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), more people between the ages of 15 and 29 experience SCIs than any other age group.