Spinal Cord Injury

Myelopathy or spinal cord injury is a problem in the spinal cord that causes numbness and loss of motor (muscular) control. Spinal cord injuries can be caused due to trauma such as accident and falls and Disease caused due to spina bifida, polio, tumors etc. The effect of spinal cord injuries be Complete (total function and sensation is lost below the injured point) or Incomplete (Sensation is not lost and only few functions of the part suffers malfunctioning).

Spinal cord injuries in general occur due to the following:

• Road accident, either car or motorcycle
  
• Injuries caused due to sports
  
• Gunshot wounds
  
• Stabbing with knife
  
• Fall from an elevated structure
  
• Accidents while diving

Symptoms of spinal cord injury include weakness, numbness and reduced synchronization from beneath the point of the injury. There is loss of feelings and tingling sensation. There may be excessive pain or loss of bladder or bowel control. Quadriplegia is an injury at the neck level of the spine and induces difficulty in breathing and paralyzes the arms, legs and trunk. Paraplegia is an injury to the lower spine and results in weakness and loss of mobility and feeling in the legs and the lower part of the body.

• Corticosteroid drugs are prescribed to ease the injury and perk up chances of healing.
  
• Surgery is required for severe cases of damage.
  
• Complete bed rest is required during the recovery period.
  
• Traction might be suggested depending on the case.
  
• Additional treatment for bladder control, urinary infections and bed sore is required.
  
• Muscles have to be strengthened through physiotherapy.

Prevention of spinal cord injuries

• Driving or riding at safe speed limits and following rules thus avoiding traumatic road accidents.
  
• Do not resort in violence, assault and physical fights that can lead to gun shots or knife wounds.
  
• Keep floor dry so as to prevent falls and when working from a height take all precautionary measures to safe guard your spine.
  
• In sports, use the right equipments and gears, and do not over do any activity.