The effects of SCI depend on the type of
injury and the level of the injury. SCI can be divided into two types of injury-
complete and incomplete. A complete injury means that there is no function below
the level of the injury, no sensation and no voluntary movement. Both sides of
the body are equally affected. An incomplete injury means that there is some
functioning below the primary level of injury. A person with an incomplete
injury may be able to move one limb more than another, may be able to feel parts
of the body that cannot be moved, or may have more functioning on one side of
the body than the other. With the advances in treatment of SCI, incomplete
injuries are becoming more common. The level of injury is very helpful in
predicting what parts of the body paralysis and loss of function might affect.
Injuries above the C-4 level may require a ventilator for the person to breathe.
C-5 injuries often result in shoulder and biceps control, but no control at the
wrist or hand. C-6 injuries generally affect wrist control, but no hand
function. Individuals with C-7 and T-1 injuries can straighten their arms but
still may have problems with the hand and fingers. At T-1 to T-8 there is most
often control of the hands, but poor trunk control as the result of lack of
abdominal muscle control. T-9 to T-12 injuries allows good trunk and good
abdominal muscle control. Individuals with SCI also experience other changes.
They may have dysfunction of the bowel and bladder. Sexual functioning is
frequently with SCI. Men have their fertility affected, while women’s fertility
is not affected. Other affects of SCI include low blood pressure, inability to
regulate blood pressure effectively, reduced control of body temperature,
inability to sweat below the level of injury and chronic pain. SCI may also
bring other possible complications like Skin Breakdown (also termed as
“decubitus ulcers” or “pressure sores”), which occurs as a result of excessive
pressure over the bones of the buttock. Osteoporosis and Fractures occurs when
muscle activity is decreased or eliminated and the legs no longer bear the
body’s weight and begin to lose calcium and phosphorus which makes them become
weak and brittle.
Usually occurring 2 years after the initial SCI. Pneumonia, Atelectasis and Aspiration are the injuries above the T-4 level of injury that
are at risk of developing restriction in respiratory functions 5-10 years after
the SCI. Heterotopic Ossification happens within 12-18 months, occurs when the
joints stiffen and fusion. Safety practices during work and recreation can
prevent many SCI’s. Use proper protective equipment if an injury is possible,
and practice appropriate safety measures. Always check the depth of water before
diving, and look for rocks or other possible obstructions. Football and sledding
injuries often involve sharp blows or abnormal twisting and bending of the back
or neck and can result in SCT. Use caution when sledding and inspect the area
for obstacles. Use appropriate techniques and equipment when playing football or
other contact sports. Falls while climbing at work or during recreational
activities may cause serious SCI’s. Always use defensive driving practices and
improved vehicular design may prevent many automobile accidents, and the use of
seat belts will greatly reduce the risk of serious injury if there is an
automobile accident. Using and remembering these tips will always reduce your
chances of ever encountering a situation where you could be the victim of a
spinal cord injury.
