What You Should Know About Spinal Cord Paralysis: “The healthy function of the spinal cords, which are approximately 43 cm long and 2 cm wide, which provide communication between the brain and the body, is of great importance for our health. In the case of damage caused by various reasons in this region where 31 nerves are located, we may encounter paralysis.”
‘Reminding the importance of September 5, World Spinal Cord Paralytics Day, Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Specialist, who expressed how vital this situation is. “Thousands of people suffer from spinal cord paralysis in England every year,” says Mary Cruse. In the meantime, early physical therapy after surgical intervention is of great importance for the functions lost. Because, with the right treatment, motor skills can be restored and the patient may not be dependent on anyone “, he gave important information.
What is the spinal cord?
The community of nerves in the spinal canal that starts from the bottom of the cerebellum and extends to the coccyx is called the spinal cord. From this area, messages go to all our muscles. That’s why the healthy function of this place plays a big role in our health.
For many reasons, the nerve transmission does not go to the area in which the spinal cord is damaged. In this case, it reveals the situation of spinal cord paralysis. For example, if there is a problem in the back area, loss of function may occur in the legs. If this damage occurs in the neck area, loss of function may occur in both arms and legs. Depending on the degree of the injury, the recovery time of the patients may be prolonged and shortened.
Causes of spinal cord injuries
Spinal cord injuries are mostly seen in young people. The biggest reason for this is traffic accidents. In addition, jumping into water of unknown depth and sports injuries are among the most common cases. The paralysis may occur due to infection, trauma or tumor.
Regardless, after the intervention, the physical therapy process should be added to the treatment planning. At this point, acting early plays a major role in restoring lost functions according to the degree and level of the injury. In addition, with the developing technology, robotic rehabilitation devices are also the hope of the patients. Therefore, people who are faced with this situation should never give up.
Early rehabilitation process is very important
Cruse continued: “Paralysis does not only occur in the neck and back vertebrae, it can also occur in the bladder (bladder) and intestine, as well as disorders in sexual functions. The early rehabilitation period after the necessary surgical intervention is very important. Because patients apply to us late. This can cause some difficulties during recovery. Sometimes it can cause negative situations.
