Spinal cord injury (SCI) is damage to the spinal cord that results in a loss of function, such as mobility, sensation and reflexes. The spinal cord is a long, tube-like band of tissue running from the brain down through the centre of the spine.
The spinal cord carries messages between the brain and the rest of the body, managing the body’s movement and sensation. When it’s damaged, these functions can be disrupted or lost.
Two main types of SCI
- Complete SCI, which means a total loss of function and sense below the site of the injury.
- Incomplete SCI means some residual function and sensation below the location of the damage.
Symptoms of SCI
Various factors, including accidents, sports injuries and violence, can cause spinal cord injury. Some medical conditions can also cause SCI, such as cancer, infection or inflammation. Meanwhile, these factors can result in a range of symptoms, including:
- Loss of movement or feeling in the body below the site of the injury
- Pain or discomfort
- Difficulty with bladder and bowel control
- Sexual dysfunction
- Difficulty breathing
- Problems with blood pressure and heart rate
- And more
Treatment for spinal cord injury
It involves a combination of medical, physical and rehabilitation therapies. The goal of treatment is to maximise function and independence and to manage any complications that may arise. BTW, SCIA operates NeuroMoves, an innovative, holistic, evidence-based exercise and therapy service for people with a neurological condition or physical disability. The service can help people with spinal cord injuries improve their health and well-being by maximising mobility, function, and independence.
Additionally, we have built up a factsheet for the topic. Please access the page to learn more about spinal cord injury if interested.
