Spinal Cord Injury
An injury to the spinal cord causes damage to nerve tracts that carry sensation and motor signals to and from the brain. An injury to the spinal cord can occur from many causes, including trauma, tumours, or lack of blood flow to the spinal cord.
The exact effects of a spinal cord injury vary according to the type and level of injury, and can be categorised into two types; Complete Injury and Incomplete Injury.
- In a complete injury, there is no function below the "neurological" level, defined as the lowest level that has intact neurological function. If a person has no motor and sensory function, the injury is said to be "complete". Recent evidence suggest that less than 5% of people with "complete" spinal cord injury recover the ability to walk.
- A person with an incomplete injury retains some sensation or movement below the level of the injury. Recent evidence suggest that over 95% of people with "incomplete" spinal cord injury can recover some ability to mobilise.
The Location of the Injury
Knowing the exact level of the injury on the spinal cord is important when predicting what parts of the body might be affected by paralysis and loss of function.
Severe injuries to the neck can result in Paraplegia or Tetraplegia (also known as Quadraplegia). Paraplegia is classified as an inability to feel and move the legs. Use of the hands, arms, head, and the muscles involved in breathing are usually not affected. Tetraplegia is paralysis of all four limbs and, depending on the level of the spinal cord injury, can affect the muscles of the neck thereby limiting head movement. The muscles involved in breathing can also be affected and may lead to external support being required i.e. a ventilator.
Our specialist Neurological Physiotherapists aim to facilitate a positive change for those with spinal cord injury. Maximising the opportunities for the individual to achieve their optimum levels of physical, functional, cognitive and social abilities are the goals of active rehabilitation and management.
To arrange an appointment or to speak with one of our specialists, call us on
0845 372 1966 or email:
info@neurotherapy.co.uk
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