Treatment and Recovery Options for Spinal Cord Injury

Injury to a spinal cord requires comprehensive rehabilitation, in order to address all of the possible side effects. It can be a life changing event, but with the right team in place to meet the rehabilitation needs, progress is possible.

Health professionals recommend the importance of seeking immediate medical attention if you believe you have a spinal cord injury. Numerous debilitating side effects, such as partial or total paralysis, and speech or cognitive interruptions could affect you.

First, doctors will X-ray your spine to find if and where there is a problem. Once they are able to asses the situation and locate the injury, they can begin presenting treatment options. Treatment can include a variety of steps, depending on your situation. Some doctors recommend medications, to reduce swelling and tension on the spinal cord. Sometimes, surgery is needed. In either case, comprehensive rehabilitation is often necessary.

A variety of therapists might be utilized, in order to help you heal. If movement is affected, a physical therapist could be employed to help you regain strength and motion and assist with pain management. Occupational therapists help you recover your ability to perform daily living and working skills. If your speech is affected, a speech therapist can begin working with you to regain your abilities. Nurses trained in the special needs of severe physical rehabilitation patients could also be part of your recovery.

It is not unusual that spinal cord injury patients need to stay for a short time as a patient in a facility so they can receive intensive, comprehensive rehabilitation from the various professionals needed. Such facilities will have all of the staff, already working together, to make a seamless treatment plan for you.

Remember to check with your doctor before undergoing any medical treatment or taking any particular remedy.