How the types of spinal cord injuries impact mobility and function
Spinal cord injuries (SCIS) are events that alter the life that can deeply affect the mobility, function and general quality of life of an individual. The severity and location of the lesion play a fundamental role in determining the scope of these impacts. Understanding the different types of spinal cord injuries and their implications is essential for patients, caregivers and medical care providers to develop effective rehabilitation strategies and improve results.
Types of spinal cord injuries
Spinal cord lesions are widely classified into two categories depending on the scope of the damage: complete and incomplete injuries In addition, the location of the lesion, whether cervical, thoracic, lumbar or sacred, determines which parts of the body are affected.
1. Full spinal cord lesion
A complete LME results in a total loss of the motor and sensory function below the level of the lesion. This type of injury generally occurs when the spinal cord is completely cut or severely damaged, which interrupts all communication between the brain and the body below the site of the lesion. People with complete sciences often experience paralysis and a complete loss of sensation in the affected areas. The ability to recover the function after a complete injury is limited, although rehabilitation can help maximize independence and adapt to new life forms.
2. Incomplete spinal cord lesion
On the contrary, an incomplete LME allows a certain degree of motor or sensory function below the injury site. This occurs when the spinal cord is partially damaged, leaving some intact neural routes. The scope of recovery varies widely, depending on the seriousness of the individual’s injury and response to rehabilitation. Some people can recover significant function, while others may have persistent deficits. Incomplete injuries can manifest in specific syndromes, such as:
- Central cord syndrome: Mainly affects the arms and hands, often leaving less deteriorated legs.
- Brown-Séquard syndrome: It results in the loss of motor function and proprioception on one side of the body, with loss of pain and temperature sensation on the opposite side.
- Anterior cord syndrome: It leads to the loss of motor function and the sensation of pain/temperature, but retains proprioception.
Location of the injury and its impact
The spinal cord is divided into four regions, each responsible for controlling different parts of the body. The level of injury determines what functions are affected.
1. Spinal cord cervical lesion (C1 – C8)
The lesions in the cervical column, located in the neck, are the most serious because they can affect the entire body. Depending on the level of injury:
- C1 – C4: It often results in tetraplejia (quadriplegia), with paralysis of the four limbs and limited control over breathing. People may require ventilatory support.
- C5 – C8: It can allow an arm and hand function, depending on the specific level. For example, a C6 injury could allow elbow flexion and wrist extension, while a C8 lesion could allow grip and release.
2. Thoracic spinal cord lesion (T1 – T12)
Thoracic lesions affect the chest, the abdomen and the lower part of the body. Since the thoracic column is under the cervical region, the injuries here generally result in paraplegia (paralysis of the lower body). People often retain the complete use of their arms and hands, but they can experience the loss of sensation and motor control on the legs and trunk. The higher the thoracic lesion, the greater the impact on the stability and balance of the trunk.
3. Lumbar lesion of the spinal cord (L1 – L5)
Lumbar column lesions mainly affect the hips and legs. People with lumbar lows can retain the strength and function of the upper body, but experience partial or complete paralysis of the lower extremities. Rehabilitation often focuses on improving mobility with assistance devices such as walkers or wheelchairs.
4. Sacra spinal cord injury (S1 – S5)
Sacral lesions are the least serious in terms of mobility, since they mainly affect their lower back, buttocks and legs. While people may experience weakness or loss of function in hips and legs, they often retain significant independence with walking. However, sacred injuries can affect the intestine, bladder and sexual function.
Functional implications
The type and location of a spinal cord injury influence not only mobility but also in other critical functions, which include:
- Bladder and intestine control: Many scis interrupts control of the nervous system on these functions, which requires life management strategies.
- Respiratory function: Cervical lesions can affect breathing, which requires mechanical ventilation or respiratory therapy.
- Feeling and pain: Altered sensation, ghost pain or hypersensitivity are common challenges.
- Muscle spasticity and atrophy: Loss of muscle control can cause spasms, oppression or waste, which requires physiotherapy.
Rehabilitation and adaptation
The rehabilitation for spinal cord lesions focuses on maximizing independence and improving the quality of life. This often involves:
- Physiotherapy: Strengthen the remaining muscle function and improve mobility.
- Labor therapy: Teach adaptive techniques for daily activities.
- Assistance devices: Use of wheelchairs, orthopedic devices or other tools to improve mobility and function.
- Psychological support: Address the challenges of emotional and mental health associated with the LME.
Conclusion
Spinal cord lesions are complex and highly individualized, with the type and location of the lesion that determine the scope of functional loss and recovery potential. While complete lesions generally result in more serious limitations, incomplete lesions offer greater opportunities for rehabilitation and adaptation. Understanding these differences is crucial to adapt treatment plans and support people to recover as much independence as possible. Advances in medical research, technology and rehabilitation continue to offer hope to improve the results and a better quality of life for those who live with spinal cord injuries.
