Physiotherapy (PT) and Occupational Therapy (OT) are core pillars of spinal cord injury (SCI) rehabilitation. They do not “cure” the injury, but they dramatically improve function, independence, health, and long-term quality of life. Here’s a clear, structured overview.
1. Physiotherapy (PT) in Spinal Cord Injury
Physiotherapy focuses on body movement, strength, endurance, mobility, and preventing complications.
🔹 Goals of Physiotherapy
- Maintain and improve muscle strength above the injury level
- Prevent muscle wasting and joint contractures
- Improve sitting balance and postural control
- Train transfers (bed ↔ wheelchair, wheelchair ↔ car)
- Improve respiratory capacity
- Build cardiovascular endurance
- Improve gait, if possible (in incomplete injuries)
- Prevent complications: pressure ulcers, DVT, spasticity
- Support neuroplasticity and recovery
🔹 Common Physiotherapy Techniques
1. Range of Motion (ROM) Exercises
Prevents stiffness, contractures, and joint deformities.
2. Strengthening Exercises
For muscles above the injury level + preserved muscles below it.
3. Mat Activities
- Rolling
- Sitting balance
- Trunk control
- Bridging
4. Gait Training
If injury is incomplete (AIS B/C/D):
- Parallel bars
- Walkers
- Robotic exoskeletons
- Body-weight–supported treadmill training (BWSTT)
5. Functional Electrical Stimulation (FES)
Electric stimulation to activate paralysed muscles:
- Improves circulation
- Prevents atrophy
- Helps cycling, standing, stepping
6. Respiratory Physiotherapy
Especially important for C1–T6 injuries.
7. Hydrotherapy
Warm water reduces spasticity, improves movement.
8. Wheelchair Mobility Training
Learning:
- Propulsion
- Turning
- Ramps
- Wheelies (for high-level independence)
