To investigate and validate the efficacy and possible mechanisms of quercetin in treating spinal cord injury (SCI). Methods: Using network pharmacology methods, we screened relevant targets of quercetin treatment for SCI from TCMSP databases, GeneCards, DisGeNET databases and OMIM databases, constructed Venn diagrams, obtained key targets of quercetin-SCI, further inputted the key target genes into STRING database to construct protein-protein interaction networks (PPI). We inputted the key target genes into Metascape database for GO and KEGG enrichment analysis. We conducted molecular docking using AutodockTools software. Finally, we validated the results through in vitro cell experiments. Results: After screening, a total of 259 quercetin-SCI key targets were obtained. Through degree value, medium centrality and closeness centrality value screening, we finally selected 10 key target genes of quercetin acting on SCI, including AKT1, VEGFA and TP53 genes. Quercetin can spontaneously bind with target proteins AKT1, VEGFA and TP53. GO biological process analysis showed that quercetin may participate in treating SCI through apoptosis signaling pathways. Cell experiment results showed that quercetin increased the cell viability of PCP12 cells treated with H2O2 by inhibiting apoptosis. Conclusion: Quercetin may treat SCI by inhibiting apoptosis, suggesting that it may have potential application prospects for treating SCI.