What a spinal cord injury is

Spinal cord injury

A spinal cord injury is damage to the spinal cord, the bundle of nerves running down the back that carries signals between the brain and body.

Depending on the level and severity, it can cause weakness or loss of movement and feeling below the injured area. Some injuries are partial, others more complete.

This matters because it affects walking, balance, the arms and often bladder and skin care.

Physiotherapy cannot repair the damaged cord. What it can do is help the person make the most of the movement they have and prevent further problems.

At home our physiotherapist works on strength, transfers, positioning and, where possible, standing and walking with aids. We also help prevent stiffness and pressure sores, and teach the family safe daily care, working alongside the medical team.