Treating a Spinal Cord injury

Spinal cord injury resulting from accidents can be traumatic and life altering for both the victim and their families. The accident that paralyzed the actor Christopher Reeve paved the way for the tremendous advances in treatment and rehabilitation therapies to improve the life of individuals with spinal cord injury. Each spinal cord injury patient is unique. Some require surgery while others need not resort to surgery. Immediate medical care within the first eight hours of the injury is critical to a patient’s recovery.

There are several types of short term treatment for a spinal cord injury. The spine in the area of the injured spinal cord is immobilized to prevent further injury to the cord. Immobilizing injuries occurring in the neck includes placing the head in a “halo” and for those injuries in the back; casts, braces and straps may be temporarily used to keep the back from moving.

Respiratory complications are often the indication of the severity of spinal cord injury. About one-third of those with spinal cord injury to the neck area will need help with breathing and require respiratory support. After stabilizing a patient, treatment is now focused on supportive care and rehabilitation. Rehabilitation often includes occupational therapy, physical therapy and counseling. Following hospitalization, some patients are admitted to a rehabilitation facility. Rehabilitation is a long term and complex process that seeks to prevent complications, promote recovery and make the most of remaining function. It requires a team of professionals including neurologist, rehabilitation specialist, occupational therapist and physical therapist. Physical therapy can help in the restoration of muscle strength, improve mobility, and maintain body functions through exercise. Sometimes more than the support form family and friends is needed to cope with spinal cord injury.

Technological advances in treating spinal cord injury include lighter weight wheelchairs that are easier to maneuver. This wheelchair significantly improves the quality of life of the patients and provides them comfort in getting around. The assistance of computer has also made some activities less exhausting. In some instances, voice-activated technology has made many of the daily tasks of living and working possible.  

Younger survivors and those with incomplete injuries do better than older survivors and those with complete injuries. The risk of spinal cord injury can be reduced through prevention of the accidents that lead to it. As vehicle accidents are the major cause of spinal cord injuries, this can be significantly reduced by driving at safe speeds and avoiding alcohol and usage of seatbelts.