WHAT IS SPINAL INJURY REHABILITATION?
Spinal cord injury (SCI) is a traumatic or non-traumatic event that leads to neural damage that affects motor, sensory, and respiratory function, also bladder, bowel, and sexual function. Neurological interruption also affects the individual’s blood pressure, ability to regulate temperature and skin integrity. Rehabilitation is the fundamental process of recovery, physiotherapy is one of the diverse approaches used in rehabilitation to restore or improve patient’s capability. Recovering from a spinal cord injury is usually a long and challenging process. The recovery depends on the level of the spinal cord injury and whether it is classed as complete or incomplete.
WHAT ARE THE TYPES OF SPINAL CORD INJURIES?
Complete Spinal Cord Injuries
This type of injury is the most serious and occurs when the spinal cord is injured. This injury eliminates the brain’s ability to send signals below the injury site. An injury at the level of the lumbar spinal cord can lead to paralysis below the waist while preserving the motor functions in the upper body and arms. Complete injury at the level of the cervical spine can lead to a loss of motor function in the lower and upper body.
Incomplete Spinal Cord Injuries An incomplete spinal injury can occur due to compression or damage to the spinal cord that reduces the brain’s ability to send signals below the injury site. Because of incomplete injuries, the symptoms may vary from person to person. Some sensory and motor functions may be compromised slightly in some patients or nearly eliminated in others.
Incomplete Spinal Cord Injuries An incomplete spinal injury can occur due to compression or damage to the spinal cord that reduces the brain’s ability to send signals below the injury site. Because of incomplete injuries, the symptoms may vary from person to person. Some sensory and motor functions may be compromised slightly in some patients or nearly eliminated in others.
WHAT IS THE AIM OF THE TREATMENT?
The main aim of Spinal Injury treatment is:
- To focus on maximizing the recovery of an individual’s motor and sensory function.
- Help prevent secondary health issues and complications related to the individual injury.
- To enhance motor functional activities with early intervention and management to prevent further complications
- To improve an individual’s independence in activities of daily living, such as eating, bathing, grooming, dressing, and mobility.
- To work towards a stage where the individual can live as fully as possible.