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Inpatient > Spinal Cord InjurySpinal Cord Injury
The spinal cord is a bundle of nerve cells and fibers that runs through the spine from the brain to the lower back. This network communicates sensation and controls movement throughout the body by carrying messages to and from the brain. When the spinal cord is damaged, messages can no longer flow past the damaged area, and communication between the brain and other parts of the body is disrupted. This can cause loss of mobility and feeling below the injured area. Spinal cord injuries can occur at any level of the spinal cord, and the level of the injury dictates which bodily functions are altered or lost.
According to the National Spinal Cord Injury Association, approximately 11,000 people sustain new spinal cord injuries every year – That’s 30 injuries every day! Common causes include motor vehicle accidents, falls and sports injuries.
Once the initial injury has healed, effective rehabilitation helps patients learn skills to live independently with any remaining disability. At Sheltering Arms we offer a wide variety of services to help those with spinal cord injuries live full, productive lives.
Physical therapists help individuals regain muscle strength and flexibility, while occupational therapists work with patients on essential activities, such as grooming, bathing, dressing and using the bathroom. Speech-language pathologists evaluate patients’ abilities to express themselves, as well as the ability to understand others. When necessary, speech-language pathologists also address swallowing issues.
Medical psychology often plays an essential role in the rehabilitation process following spinal cord injury, helping patients with emotional adjustments to their new situations. Physiatrists, nurses and case managers oversee the rehabilitation process, ensuring coordinated care and making recommendations for next steps following inpatient rehabilitation.
For more information about spinal cord injuries, visit http://www.spinalcord.org/.
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