What are Spinal Cord Injuries?
A spinal cord injury occurs when there is damage to the spinal cord itself or the nerves at the end of the cord. This damage disrupts communication between the brain and body, often resulting in permanent changes to strength, sensation, and other functions below the level of injury.
Depending on where and how severe the injury is, people may experience partial or complete paralysis. Spinal cord injuries also often impact bladder and bowel control, sexual function, breathing, and overall quality of life.
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What causes spinal cord injuries?
Spinal cord injuries are most often the result of trauma. Common causes include:
- Motor vehicle accidents (nearly half of all new cases)
- Falls, especially in older adults
- Acts of violence, such as gunshot or knife wounds
- Sports and recreation injuries, including diving accidents
- Medical conditions like arthritis, cancer, osteoporosis, or spinal infections
The likelihood of a spinal cord injury is higher in men, in people ages 16–30, and again in adults over 65 due to falls. Alcohol use and risky behaviors also increase risk.
What are the symptoms of a spinal cord injury?
Symptoms vary based on the location and severity of the injury. Common signs include:
- Loss of movement or sensation (partial or complete)
- Paralysis (tetraplegia/quadriplegia or paraplegia)
- Pain, tingling, or stinging sensations
- Loss of bladder or bowel control
- Trouble breathing, coughing, or clearing secretions
- Sexual dysfunction
- Muscle spasms or exaggerated reflexes
Emergency symptoms after an accident include extreme neck or back pain, numbness or weakness in the limbs, loss of bladder/bowel control, or difficulty breathing. Immediate medical evaluation is essential, and anyone who has suffered a spinal cord injury should not be moved until medical help arrives.
How is a spinal cord injury diagnosed?
Doctors use a combination of physical exams, neurological testing, and imaging studies to assess the severity and level of injury. Tests may include:
- Imaging to identify fractures or compression
- Neurological exams to evaluate muscle strength, reflexes, and sensation
- Electrodiagnostic studies in some cases
Determining whether an injury is “complete” (no sensation/movement below the injury) or “incomplete” (some function remains) is key to guiding treatment.
What are the treatment options for spinal cord injuries?
Spinal cord injuries require immediate and long-term care. Treatment may include:
- Emergency stabilization to prevent further damage
- Medications to reduce inflammation and manage pain
- Rehabilitation therapy focused on mobility, independence, and adaptation
- Surgical options to relieve pressure or stabilize the spine
- Assistive devices such as wheelchairs, braces, or communication tools
- Ongoing management of complications like bladder/bowel function, skin integrity, and cardiovascular health
Rehabilitation often involves a team of specialists in physical therapy, occupational therapy, PM&R, neurosurgery, and mental health, all working to restore independence and quality of life.
What is the outlook for people with spinal cord injuries?
Recovery from a spinal cord injury varies widely. While some nerve function may return in the first six months, long-term outcomes depend on the location and severity of the injury. Advances in research are offering hope for future treatments, but currently, comprehensive rehabilitation, and adaptive strategies allow many people with spinal cord injuries to live active, fulfilling, and independent lives.
Spinal Cord Injury Treatment at OrthoNebraska
Do you need relief from a spinal cord injury in the Omaha area? Our spinal cord specialists will build a customized treatment plan that works for your needs — make an appointment today to learn about your options.
