Spinal Cord Injury: 10 Things You Need To Know

 A Spinal Cord Injury is a medical condition that has potential long-term physical effects on the patient. Depending on the severity of the injury, patients can expect to recover some degree of mobility with the right treatment and therapy. Here is a quick guide to some of the salient facts related to the condition.

Understanding Spinal Cord Injury

A Spinal Cord Injury occurs due to a mutilation of the spinal cord, which causes reversible or irreversible changes in its function. Symptoms may include loss of muscle function, sensation, or autonomic function in several parts of the body. 

The best Spinal Cord Injury treatment typically comprises a combination of Stem Cell Therapy, Physiotherapy, Occupational Therapy, Speech and Language Therapy, acupuncture, and other options as per the patient's needs.

10 things you need to know about Spinal Cord Injury

A Spinal Cord Injury can be traumatic, both for the patient and for their loved ones. Learning as much as you can about the condition can guide you towards making the right decisions about its treatment and rehabilitation. 

Here are 10 critical facts about Spinal Cord Injury that you should keep in mind:

• Spinal Cord Injury affects about 2,50,000 to 5,00,000 people worldwide every year, majorly due to preventable causes such as road accidents, sports or workplace injuries, and acts of violence.

• Research shows that Spinal Cord Injury affects males more than females, with a ratio of about 2:1.

• Spinal Cord Injuries can be either partial or complete depending on the location and degree of severity of the injury. Partial Injuries lead to some loss of mobility and function, whereas, Complete Injuries lead to a loss in motor function and bladder or bowel control, difficulties in breathing, and paralysis. People with either type of Spinal Cord Injury will usually experience chronic pain.

• Patients with a Spinal Cord Injury are two to five times more likely to die prematurely than a healthy person. Particularly in low-income countries where such injuries can also lead to secondary conditions, such as infected pressure sores, if not treated properly.

• A Spinal Cord Injury can lead to serious, lasting secondary illnesses, such as muscle spasms, osteoporosis, deep vein thrombosis, urinary tract infection, and others. Acute care and an ongoing health plan can help to cure or at least manage these secondary conditions. 

• Patients with Spinal Cord Injury are at the highest risk of medical complications during the first year after the injury, which necessitates regular check-ups and ongoing medical care.

• About 20-30% of patients develop depression during their course of treatment, as they often become frustrated for being dependent on others for even the smallest of things.

• About 15% of patients with lower and upper body paralysis will get pressure ulcers within a year of their injury.

• Spinal Cord Injuries have a few socio-economic consequences, with costs of ongoing medical care being among the highest of other long-term illnesses. The injury also impairs the patient’s earning capacity owing to physical limitations. 

• The social stigma associated with Spinal Cord Injury can inhibit the patient’s ability to participate fully in society. Proper legislation and active efforts to create more inclusive educational institutes and workspaces can help with this.

A Spinal Cord Injury tends to require long-term care even if the patient does recover some degree of functionality. Having the right emotional support system and the best healthcare will help with this, as the patient need not battle the condition alone. Regular consultations with your doctor about therapy options, medication upgrades, and the use of assistive devices will ensure that you get the best Spinal Cord Injury treatment to maximize your chances of a healthy, mobile life.