Which condition is an indication for spinal motion restriction?

Which condition is an indication for spinal motion restriction?

• A. Posterior midline vertebral pain, tenderness or deformity
• B. GCS = 15
• C. Language barrier
• D. Age 30

Answer: (A)

Spinal motion restriction is used whenever there’s a suspicion that moving the spine could worsen an injury. The clearest trigger is posterior midline tenderness, pain, or deformity along the spine. If you palpate the back and find midline tenderness or noticeable deformity, it raises concern for a vertebral fracture or instability, and immobilization is necessary to protect the spinal cord during transport. A normal GCS by itself doesn’t rule out spine injury, and a language barrier or age alone aren’t indications for SMR.

Spinal motion restriction is used whenever there’s a suspicion that moving the spine could worsen an injury. The clearest trigger is posterior midline tenderness, pain, or deformity along the spine. If you palpate the back and find midline tenderness or noticeable deformity, it raises concern for a vertebral fracture or instability, and immobilization is necessary to protect the spinal cord during transport. A normal GCS by itself doesn’t rule out spine injury, and a language barrier or age alone aren’t indications for SMR.