The purpose of this review was twofold. The first objective was to examine the anatomy and function of the vertebral body, the intervertebral disk, and the spinal ligaments, as well as the regional characteristics of the human spinal column. The second objective was to define the mechanism of spinal injury using a standardized classification based on classical bio dynamics. The injury patterns reported are discussed in general terms. Each mode of injury is unique and must be treated as such.

There currently exists a lack of understanding and knowledge concerning the orthopedic biomechanics of spinal trauma resulting from recreational and competitive sports. Sports injury research has yet to provide an in depth analysis of the frequency, severity, and nature of spinal injury modes. Basic input into the decision processes concerning safety and injury is usually the result of perceived need rather than statistical data. Comparison of sports injury reports is difficult since there is no uniformity in terminology or roentgenographic analysis. All possible injury modes have not been adequately documented.

If injuries are to be prevented, the manufacturers of such items as sports equipment and recreational vehicles must be familiar with the wide variety of spinal injury modes and must know in quantifiable terms the limits of human tolerance for a particular mode of trauma. Until these quantitative data are available it will remain extremely difficult to design equipment and vehicles that will provide a high degree of safety. Over the past 20 years some fundamental studies of spinal mechanisms as related to trauma have appeared. However, only a few of these investigations have been related to equipment design, equipment failure, or injury modes. Scientists and manufacturers must collaborate in order to ensure that current knowledge is incorporated into the future design of equipment and vehicles.