RehabifyWhat spinal cord injury can change
- Movement and sensation below the level of injury
- Bladder and bowel control, needing a regular routine
- Skin, with a risk of pressure sores on areas you cannot feel
- Spasticity, muscles that stay tight and stiff or jerk
- Pain, including nerve pain
- Blood pressure, including autonomic dysreflexia, a sudden dangerous rise in blood pressure in injuries at or above the mid-chest level
- Mood, sexual health and return to work or study
Who should see a rehab doctor
Signs to get checked
- Anyone with a new spinal cord injury, once medically stable
- People living with a long-standing injury who want to improve independence
- People with pressure sores, repeated urine infections, spasticity or pain
- Families who need training and advice on equipment and home changes
What happens at Rehabify
- 01
History
How and when the injury happened, surgery, current routines and goals.
- 02
Examination
Strength and sensation by level (the ISNCSCI standard), muscle tone, skin check, sitting balance, transfers and wheelchair use.
- 03
Goals
Practical aims such as transferring on your own, managing your bladder, or returning to work.
- 04
Your plan
Therapy for strength and transfers, wheelchair and cushion advice, bladder and bowel programmes, skin care, medicines and spasticity treatment when needed.
- 05
Home and family
Training for carers, home and vehicle changes, and a schedule of regular reviews.
The doctor decides the right tests and treatment for you after examining you.
Before and after your visit
How to prepare
- Bring discharge summaries, MRI reports and a list of medicines
- Bring your wheelchair, cushion, braces or catheter supplies if you use them
- Note your bladder and bowel routine and any skin problems
- Bring a family member or carer
After your visit
You leave with a written plan covering exercise, bladder, bowel and skin care, equipment advice and a review date. You can send questions on WhatsApp between visits.
When to get help urgently
Medical emergency
Call 108 or 112 or go to an emergency department for a sudden pounding headache with flushing or sweating above the injury and high blood pressure (autonomic dysreflexia), fever with chills, breathing trouble, chest pain, a swollen painful leg, or new loss of strength or sensation. For autonomic dysreflexia, sit upright, loosen tight clothing and check the catheter while help comes.
Common questions
Can a person walk again after a spinal cord injury?
It depends on the level of injury and whether it is complete or incomplete. Some people with incomplete injuries regain walking, with or without aids. Others reach full independence using a wheelchair. The doctor will discuss realistic goals after examining you.
How can pressure sores be prevented?
Change position often, at least every 2 hours in bed and by shifting weight every 15 to 30 minutes in a wheelchair. Use the right cushion and mattress, keep skin clean and dry, eat well and check your skin daily with a mirror or a family member's help.
What is autonomic dysreflexia?
It is a sudden, dangerous rise in blood pressure that can happen in injuries at or above the mid-chest level. It is often triggered by a full bladder, constipation or a skin problem. Signs include a pounding headache and sweating. It needs urgent action.
How is the bladder managed after spinal cord injury?
Most people need a regular plan, often using clean intermittent catheterisation several times a day. The right plan protects the kidneys and lowers infection risk. The doctor works out a routine that fits your hands, lifestyle and support.
Can I return to work or study?
Many people do, with changes to the workplace, transport and routine. Rehab works on the skills, equipment and stamina needed. The doctor can also advise on disability certificates and support where relevant.
Sources
- [1]
Consortium for Spinal Cord Medicine. clinical practice guidelines (Paralyzed Veterans of America)
- [2]
American Spinal Injury Association (ASIA). International Standards for Neurological Classification of Spinal Cord Injury (ISNCSCI)
- [3]
World Health Organization (WHO) and ISCoS. International Perspectives on Spinal Cord Injury
This page is for general education and does not replace a consultation. The right plan depends on your examination.