Spinal cord injury

Overview

The spinal cord carries messages between the brain and body.

Damage can cause weakness, numbness, or loss of bladder control below the injury.

Symptoms

Common signs:

• Numbness or weakness after injury
• Can't move legs or arms
• Neck or back pain after injury

Less common

• Loss of bladder control

When to get medical care

Causes

Trauma.

Who is more likely to get it

• Diving into shallow water
• Car crashes

Possible complications

• Bedsores (pressure injuries): From sitting or lying still
• Autonomic dysreflexia: A sudden rise in blood pressure

Diagnosis

This is diagnosed in the emergency room or hospital.

The exam

A physical exam.

Tests

Tests, if needed:

• CT:
• MRI:

Treatment

Emergency care is needed. While waiting for help:

Self-care

• Call 911
• Keep head and neck still

Prevention

To lower your risk or catch problems early:

• Seat belts
• Never dive into shallow water

Which doctor treats this

• Emergency doctors treat it first, in the ER.
• They may send you to a neurologist (brain and nerve doctor) or a spine surgeon.

Living with it

Support groups and helplines

• Christopher & Dana Reeve Foundation: Information specialists and peer mentors for paralysis.

Back to school, work, or sports

• Recovery time varies. Ask your care team when you can drive, lift, work, and exercise.

Children, pregnancy, and older adults

• Young men: Most injuries happen ages 16 to 30.

For caregivers

• Go to visits when you can and take notes.
• Keep a list of medicines, allergies, and doctors in one place.
• Learn the warning signs that need fast care.
• Take breaks and ask for help. Caregivers need care too.

Outlook

Rehab helps people regain function.

Getting ready for your visit

Bring a list of your symptoms and medicines.

What to bring

• A list of your medicines and supplements
• Notes on when symptoms started and what makes them better or worse

Questions to ask

• What follow-up care do I need?
• How can I prevent this from happening again?

Research studies

Research studies test new ways to find and treat health problems. Some are looking for volunteers. Talk with your doctor before joining one.

Search ClinicalTrials.gov for studies on Spinal cord injury