Spinal cord injuries require immediate treatment to help prevent additional harm. Although doctors, scientists, and researchers are continually devoting themselves to promising advancements, there is no cure at this time.
Immediately after a spinal cord injury, the victim is placed on a backboard with a neck brace to stabilize the spine. Emergency room doctors then perform tests to assess the stability of the spine. If the spinal cord is unstable, they may perform immediate surgery. After surgery, patients typically stay in the intensive care unit (ICU), where they undergo rehabilitation therapy at an appropriate level.
Once the individual leaves the ICU, they are moved to a rehabilitation facility where recovery and rehabilitation continue. This may include improvement in the patient’s physical condition or learning how to use adaptive equipment.
The next step is transitioning home and continuing rehabilitation. Rehabilitation programs may be outpatient, at home, or an independent therapy program. Most people require therapy for the rest of their lives to maintain function and possibly continue to improve. The goal of rehabilitation is to help the injured person regain as much function, independence, and quality of life as possible. It is a lot of work and may seem overwhelming, but dedicated professionals and loved ones can help.
Therapists work to help a patient improve:
- Mobility, such as walking or using a wheelchair.
- Respiratory support, such as breathing techniques or ventilator use.
- Self-care. Basic daily tasks, such as dressing or hygiene, can be challenging.
- Communication skills. Therapists provide techniques to help a patient regain speaking and writing skills.
- Emotional health. The emotional effects of the injury may be just as difficult to deal with as the physical effects.
- Family support and education. When a loved one suffers a spinal cord injury, everybody’s life changes. Counselors and therapists can offer education and family support to help everyone adapt.