Treatment begins with the emergency medical personnel who make an initial evaluation and immobilise the patient for transport. Immediate medical care within the first 8 hours following injury is critical to the patient's recovery. Nowadays there is much greater knowledge about the moving and handling of spinal injury patients. Incorrect techniques used at this stage could worsen the injuries considerably.

When injury occurs and for a period of time thereafter, the spinal cord responds by swelling. Treatment starts with steroid drugs, these can be administered at the scene by an air ambulance Doctor or trained paramedic. These drugs reduce inflammation in the injured area and help to prevent further damage to cellular membranes that can cause nerve death. Sparing nerves from further damage and death is crucial.

spine surgeons california