A spinal cord injury — damage to any part of the spinal cord or nerves at the end of the spinal canal (cauda equina) — often causes permanent changes in strength, sensation and other body functions below the site of the injury.
Spinal Cord Injury (SCI) treatment and rehabilitation focuses on intensively working with patients holistically, so that in a short period of time patients can maximize their neurological recovery and reach their highest functional level. Our team of therapists want patients to return home as independent and productive as possible in preparation to resume activities of daily living. Unfortunately, there is no way to reverse damage to the spinal cord, but there are ways to manage the aftercare and long-term care. There is an array of treatment that can be undertaken to manage spinal cord injuries, be it conservative, surgical procedures, medication or immobilisation. During the initial stages of rehabilitation, therapists usually emphasize maintenance and strengthening of existing muscle function, redeveloping fine motor skills, and learning adaptive techniques to accomplish day-to-day tasks. Patients will be educated on the effects of a spinal cord injury and how to prevent complications, and will be given advice on rebuilding their patient’s life and increasing their quality of life and independence.