Man will likely be a quadriplegic after jumping into foam pit at leisure centre

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Central University Hospital of Asturias (Image: Wikimedia)
Central University Hospital of Asturias (Image: Wikimedia)

A man who broke his neck and severely injured his spinal cord will likely be left a quadriplegic for life after jumping into a foam pit at a Spanish leisure centre.

The 27-year-old from Blimea in northern Spain sustained the injuries after the accident at the newly-opened leisure and games venue for adults and children in the nearby town of Colloto. His girlfriend and some friends were also playing and were horrified to discover him unconscious.

The unnamed man was then taken to the Central University Hospital of Asturias for treatment. There are fears that he may end up a quadriplegic, local news outlet La Nueva España de Siero reported.

His spine had been broken halfway down the neck at the third cervical vertebra, or C3. The man has undergone surgery, but tests show that he has a complete spinal cord injury, which may leave him unable to move his arms or legs. A complete spinal cord injury means no nerve communication is below the injury site, with sensory and motor function lost below that site. It usually takes a significant trauma to the spinal column, such as a complete dislocation to the vertebrate to cause a complete injury. This causes the spinal cord to be crushed and completely compromised.

Spinal Cord Injuries have far-reaching consequences and require many adjustments to adapt to life after injury, both physically and psychologically. The NHS states that how someone copes in the longer term does not depend on their injury. Some people assume that a more debilitating injury makes someone worse but research suggests that this is not the case. The most influential factors are: "How someone perceives their situation, belief that they can cope and influence their situation, social support and hobbies."

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The venue where the accident occurred on Monday remains open but the foam pit has been closed and an investigation into the cause of the accident is being carried out. The venue will hand over recordings of the accident for the investigation but says it was not at fault. Venue company officials told local news El Comercio: "It was not our fault, the installation is good and has all the necessary safety protections. We have hired experts and lawyers."

Rachel Hagan

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