New campaign to prevent spinal cord injuries from diving

In light of the widespread reopening of swimming pools and the increase in activity on beaches, rivers, and reservoirs, the National Paraplegic Hospital is once again launching a campaign to raise awareness among swimmers about the risk of spinal cord injuries from diving. The Spanish Society of Rehabilitation and Physical Medicine, the National Federation of Paraplegics (ASPAYM), the Spanish Red Cross, and the Royal Spanish Federation of Lifeguards and Rescuers collaborated on the initiative.

Under the slogan "With Head Yes, Head No ," the campaign will focus especially on social media with the hashtags #Zambullidas2025, #ConCabezaSí, and #DeCabezaNo, and will remind swimmers of the importance of looking carefully before diving into the water and acting with caution. A bad dive can cause the head to hit the bottom with force, damaging the neck vertebrae and spinal cord, which can lead to paralysis, loss of sensation or movement, and the need for lifelong assistance.

Although diving injuries are serious accidents, they can be prevented, the organizations involved emphasize. They also warn that diving headfirst into shallow or unfamiliar areas is one of the main causes of this type of injury, especially in the summer.

Income from diving

According to the latest admissions report from the National Paraplegic Hospital, three men were admitted last year for diving. All of the injuries occurred in the cervical spine, and two of them resulted in complete tetraplegia.

"We're talking about injuries that change the lives of young people, with very severe functional consequences, and the most painful thing is that many could have been avoided. Therefore, we must act before they happen: prevention saves lives, and the best spinal cord injury is one that never goes away," said Mónica Alcobendas, director of the National Paraplegic Hospital.

From the National Federation of ASPAYM, its president, Mayte Gallego, points out that "this year's data demonstrates the importance of these prevention and awareness campaigns." The president reiterates how crucial it is "not to be overconfident when diving in, especially when you don't know the bottom," and to be cautious, "always diving in with your hands first."

Paralysis and loss of sensation are the most common sequelae of a spinal cord injury.

For its part, the RFESS reminds everyone of the importance of respecting safety regulations, always following the lifeguards' safety instructions, and avoiding reckless behavior such as jumping off rocky areas or cliffs.

For all these reasons, organizations recommend following five precautions to avoid spinal cord injuries from diving. First, know the depth of the area to avoid contact with the bottom. Second, enter feet-first to assess the depth and the presence of submerged objects. Also, maintain adequate supervision of children and adolescents when engaging in water activities.

Fourth, avoid alcohol, as its consumption impairs judgment and increases the risk of making dangerous decisions. And finally, heed the signs at swimming pools and public water areas.

Read also A 40-year-old swimmer dies on the beach of Far de Sant Cristòfol, in Vilanova i la Geltrú. The Vanguard

In the case of a diving injury, it is crucial to act quickly and not move the injured person, as improper movement could worsen the injury. Therefore, it is important to keep the person still and in the position in which they were found until professional assistance arrives.

The entities participating in the campaign will disseminate this content on their social media channels. The initiative will also be available to city councils, neighborhood associations, and any entity that manages a water park.