ATV accidents 'cause an increasing number of spinal cord injuries'RSS Feed

12 March 2010

All-terrain vehicles (ATVs) have been shown to cause a high number of spinal injuries in children in the US.

New research carried out by scientists from a number of universities indicated that 7.4 per cent of the 4,483 children studied over several years suffered spinal injuries on the machines.

This reflects a 368 per cent increase in the number of spinal injuries compared to 1997 research, the Dr Kevin Shea-led study showed.

Three-quarters (76 per cent) of the patients injured as a result of an accident on an ATV were male, while 85 per cent were Caucasian.

Perhaps most worryingly, the average age of riders injured on vehicles was 13 years old.

Commenting on the findings, which were presented to delegates at the 2010 Annual Meeting of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, Dr Shea said: "These vehicles can produce significant injuries in young riders, and we care for many in our community.

"Nationwide, there is even a rise in amputations and death from the use of these powerful vehicles."

A recent study published by researchers at the University of California indicated that the central nervous system can be encouraged to regenerate following spinal injury, even when treatment is delayed.

Scientists discovered that genes can be 'turned on' to support regeneration.

Serious Law, leading spinal cord injury solicitors ADNFCR-2547-ID-19665322-ADNFCR