Miscalculated dives continue to worry doctors and affect young people

Diving accidents are one of the main causes of spinal injuries in Portugal, especially among young people under 35.

The Portuguese Society of Spinal Pathology (SPPCV) is promoting an awareness campaign titled "There are jumps that can change your life!". The main objective of this campaign is to alert the public, especially younger people, to the consequences of miscalculated dives, which affect approximately 100 Portuguese people each year.

Between May and September, the bathing season, the highest number of diving-related accidents occurs. The high number of people visiting beaches and pools makes it essential to take extra precautions and raise awareness of the risks of diving in unfamiliar places or shallow waters.

According to orthopedist Nelson Carvalho, president of SPPCV: “Spinal injuries related to diving are potentially very serious and can cause irreversible consequences.

A simple, miscalculated dive can have devastating consequences, such as paralysis of the legs (paraplegia), paralysis of all four limbs (tetraplegia), and, in extreme cases, death if the fracture occurs in the uppermost segment of the spine. These situations constitute true medical emergencies, often requiring urgent surgery. Even if the only symptom is pain, it is essential to seek immediate medical evaluation.

The central message of the campaign “There are leaps that can change your life!” is to promote responsible behaviors, such as:

• Always check the depth of the water before diving to avoid shallow areas or areas with obstacles;
• Respect the signs and remain within supervised areas, whether on the beach or in the pool;
• Never dive under the influence of alcohol, do not run around the pool to prevent falls and always enter the sea walking, never headfirst.

The SPPCV also warns of the importance of knowing how to act in the event of an accident. If you suspect a spinal injury, you should immediately contact 112 and, until help arrives, never move the victim, as any movement could worsen the injury. Always follow the instructions given by the INEM operator and wait for specialized help to arrive.