The spinal cord is very sensitive to injury and is one of the most devastating injuries out there. Spinal injuries occur when there is damage to the spinal cord either from trauma, loss of its regular blood supply, or compression from tumor or infection. Symptoms of a spinal injury can vary depending on the severity and location of the injury. Injuries to the spinal cord can often cause weakness or complete loss of muscle function and loss of sensation in the body below the level of damage. Even though recovery from some spinal injuries is possible, the person suffering from one will often have weakness, numbness and constant pain. Signs that you may likely have a spinal injury after an accident include extreme back pain or pressure in your neck, incoordination or paralysis of any part of your body. Spinal injuries often have long-lasting effects; proper rehabilitation is essential to help maximize function through physical therapy and the use of assistive devices.