Spinal Program

Understanding Spinal Cord Injury

The spine provides support for the human body and allows us to stand erect. It consists of a series of bones called vertebrae. There are 33 vertebrae in total. The vertebrae are divided into sections called the cervical, thoracic, lumbar, sacral and coccygeal areas. Between each of these vertebrae are located discs. The centre of the vertebrae provides an opening through which the spinal cord travels. Spinal nerves exit from the spinal cord at each vertebral level. The spinal cord and spinal nerves carry messages between the brain and the rest of the body. Injury to the spinal cord results in both sensory and motor disabilities. Spinal cord injury results from pressure on the spinal cord. There are many possible causes, including spinal tumors, spinal stenosis, spondylolithesis, spondylosis, and myelopathy (see Glossary).

Spinal cord injury may result in a loss of:

Movement/Muscle Control: Inability to move muscles; muscles may have spastic contractions or may atrophy from disuse.

Sensation: Inability to feel hot/cold, pressure, pain, position sense, and also inability to regulate body temperature.

Organ Systems: Loss of control of bowel/bladder. The individual may need treatment to assist with sexual function and fertility.