Physical Therapy can Help Patients with Spinal Cord Injuries

Spinal Cord Injuries and Physical Therapy

The spinal cord is a collection of nerves that go from the bottom of your brain and all the way down your back. There are pairs of nerves that leave the spinal cord, going to the arms, legs, chest, and abdomen. These nerves play an essential role in the movement of your arms and legs. These nerves also help control the function of some important organs, like the bladder, and your heart and lungs. Signals from the spinal cord even control how fast your heart beats. Taking that into consideration, it is obvious that the spinal cord is a vital part of the body.

So, what happens when it gets damaged?

The spinal cord is protected by the bones in your neck and back called vertebrae. However, even with this layer of protection, the spinal cord is still susceptible to injury. The spinal cord is different than other parts of your body, in that It doesn’t have the ability to repair itself if damaged. Damage to the spinal cord can either be described as complete, or incomplete. When damage is complete there is a complete loss of sensation and muscle function below the level of injury. In an incomplete spinal cord injury, there is still some remaining function or sensation below the injury.

Spinal cord injuries can be devastating and drastically change a person’s life. Symptoms will depend on where and how badly the spinal cord was damaged. Injury to a certain portion of the spinal cord, for example, could cause paralysis in the arms and leg. A person who has injured a part of the spinal cord in the neck could experience difficulty breathing. Generally, a person will experience weakness and a complete or partial loss of function below the injury level. For the best chance of recovery, early treatment and intervention are key.

Working with a physical therapist after a spinal cord injury can help increase range of motion, alleviate pain, and promote a healthy recovery, ensuring the best outcome. At Reddy Care Physical and Occupational Therapy, we have a team of expert therapist that can get you on a rehabilitation plan that meets your needs. Your plan will be tailored to you and your specific diagnosis. Your treatment can include anything from stretches and exercises, to getting you set-up with the right assistive device. We also have a team of occupational therapists who can help you adjust and learn new ways of accomplishing daily tasks while you are recovering.

To find out more about our services and how we can help you or a loved one suffering from a spinal injury, call us today to schedule an appointment!

At Reddy Care Physical and Occupational Therapy, we can get you set up with the right therapist for you.
Reddy Care Great Neck (Great Neck Physical Therapy): 516-829-0030
Reddy Care Farmingdale (Farmingdale Physical Therapy): 516-420-2900
In-Home Physical & Occupational Therapy (Home Care): 516-829-0030

sources:

https://www.medicinenet.com/spinal_cord_injury_treatments_and_rehabilitation/article.htm

https://www.reddycare.net/services/spinal-rehabilitation

Author

Reddy Care Physical and Occupational Therapy

Reddy Care Physical & Occupational Therapy Reddy Care Physical & Occupational Therapy is an outstanding specialty service providing exceptional care and state-of-the-art treatments for the residents of Farmingdale and Great Neck, New York. The combination of innovative exercise programs, manual therapy, and technology together with the expertise of every member of the team enables Reddy Care Physical & Occupational Therapy to provide services that ensure superior clinical outcomes and consistently high patient satisfaction.

You Might Also Enjoy...

What is Sensory Processing Disorder

Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD) is a neurological condition that affects how the brain processes sensory information in children. Those with SPD may exhibit heightened sensitivity to sensory input or may not respond to it at all, leading to challenges in

Down Syndrome: Understanding Its Causes, Characteristics, and the Role of Therapies in Enhancing Ind

Down syndrome is a genetic disorder caused by abnormal cell division that results in an extra full or partial copy of chromosome 21. This additional genetic material leads to developmental differences and distinct physical features associated with Down syn

Dupuytren’s Contracture: A Comprehensive Guide to Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment Options

Dupuytren’s contracture is a painless condition that affects the hand, causing one or more fingers to bend toward the palm. As the condition progresses, the affected fingers cannot straighten completely, leading to a claw-like appearance.

Lymphedema: An Overview of Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment Strategies

Lymphedema refers to tissue swelling caused by an accumulation of protein-rich fluid that's usually drained through the body's lymphatic system. It most commonly affects the arms or legs, but can also occur in the chest wall, abdomen, neck and genitals.

Understanding Balance Disorder

A balance disorder is a condition that affects your ability to stay steady and can make you feel dizzy or unsteady. Whether you’re standing, sitting, or lying down, you may feel as though you're moving, spinning, or floating. When walking, you might experi

Understanding Chronic Bronchitis

Chronic bronchitis is a respiratory condition characterized by a productive cough that persists for at least three months, with recurring episodes occurring over two consecutive years. It is a form of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and requir