Which technique should be used to move a patient with suspected spinal injury to preserve spinal alignment?

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Maintaining spinal alignment while moving a patient with suspected spinal injury is essential to prevent worsening of any spinal cord damage. The best approach is to move the patient as a single unit using log-roll technique with inline stabilization. This means keeping the head, neck, and spine in a straight, neutral line throughout the move, while coordinated teammates roll the patient together onto a backboard or stretcher. Manual stabilization of the head and neck is maintained during the roll, and the spine is kept rigid and aligned to minimize any bending, twisting, or flexion.

This approach is superior because it limits movement of the spine during transfer, reducing the risk of secondary injury. Lifting from the shoulders alone can cause rotation or misalignment, sliding without stabilization can result in uncontrolled spine movement, and carrying without a team removes the necessary control to keep the spine in a fixed position.