i. False Motion. There may be motion at a point where there is normally no
motion. This movement at the fracture site is called false motion.
j. Massive Injury. There may be massive injury to an arm or leg
accompanying the fracture.
k. Snap. A "snapping" sound may have been heard by the casualty at the time
of the injury.
6-5.
TREATING A SPINAL FRACTURE
Injury to the spine may cause paralysis and even death. Unless an immediate,
life-threatening danger is present (fire, explosions, and so forth), you should not move a
casualty with a suspected back or neck injury. Immobilize the casualty to prevent
movement of his back and neck and seek medical help for the casualty. Treat any
casualty which you think may have a spinal injury as though you were certain that he
had a fractured spine.
a. Recognize a Possible Spinal Injury. Signs and symptoms of an injured
spine include:
(1)
Pain or tenderness of the neck or back.
(2)
Cut or bruise on the neck or back.
(3)
Inability to move part of the body (paralysis), especially the legs.
(4) Lack of feeling in a body part. (Touch the casualty's arms and legs and
ask if he feels your hand.)
(5)
Loss of bladder and/or bowel control.
(6)
Head or back in an unusual position.
b. Seek Medical Help. Send someone to seek medical help, usually the
combat medic. Special supplies, such as a spine board, should be used to prepare the
casualty for evacuation.
c. Immobilize the Suspected Fracture.
(1)
Tell the casualty to keep still. Any movement could cause additional
injury.
IS0877
6-5
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