Spinal Cord Trauma

Spinal Cord Trauma

Symptoms

• Weakness, numbness, paralysis
• Loss of bladder or bowel control

All feeling and nerve impulses to control the muscles of the body flow through the spinal cord. The spinal cord is surrounded by a flexible canal of bone along with a cushion of fluid, but severe stresses can still bruises and partly or totally sever the delicate cord. The damaged nerves can no longer send and receive messages. Sensations won’t be felt and muscles can’t be used in the area served by the damaged to some extent in a serious injury, although one side may be more affected than the other. 

The course of recovery, or rehabilitation, following a spinal cord injury is long and difficult. It may take weeks to months. Personality and emotional changes, especially depression, often accompany severe injuries. Group support and individual counseling can help the person recover independence and deal with the psychological impact of the injury.

Testing

The person who has spinal cord injury should be transported to the hospital by the people who are trained to do so, such as emergency medical technicians or paramedics. X-rays of the spine will be done to determine the extent of the damage to the vertebrae ( the bone surrounding the spinal Cord). S CT scan or myelogram may be done to check the damage to the cord itself.

Treatment

The person may need surgery to relieve pressure on the spinal cord. A rehabilitation program will be designed to help the person recover as much function as possible.