C1-C3
This level of SCI requires mechanical ventilation due to loss of diaphragm function.
What is C1–C3?
A person at this level may complete upper body dressing with setup help, but needs assistance with this.
What is lower body dressing?
Return of this arm muscle allows improved transfers and propulsion.
What is triceps?
Return of these muscles at L1–L2 allows patients to begin ambulation with assistive devices.
What are the hip flexors?
Return of these muscles improves knee stability and supports community ambulation.
What are the quadriceps?
People with this level of SCI are dependent for all mobility and require total assistance for ADLs.
What is C1–C3?
This method of pressure relief is possible at C6 using elbow locking and anterior deltoid activation.
What is independent wheelchair push-up or lateral lean?
This type of pressure relief becomes fully independent at this level.
What is a wheelchair push-up?
Ambulation is possible at this level with these types of devices
What are KAFOs and forearm crutches
This type of orthosis is typically prescribed at this level.
What is an AFO?
t this level, individuals can use this type of powered wheelchair with head, chin, or sip-and-puff control.
What is a power wheelchair with adaptive controls?
This key muscle group returns at C5-C6, enabling elbow flexion.
What are elbow flexors/biceps?
C7 SCI allows for independence in this aspect of dressing.
What is both upper and lower body dressing?
This form of mobility is still used for long distances or energy conservation.
What is a manual wheelchair?
Patients at this level are typically independent in ambulation using this.
What are forearm crutches or a cane?
Though fully dependent physically, the patient may demonstrate independence by doing this.
What is verbally directing their care?
This functional grip, developed at C6, allows for basic grasping of items.
What is tenodesis grip?
This type of wheelchair is typically used full-time at this level.
what is a manual W/c.
These two activities can usually be completed independently: toileting and this.
What is dressing?
This mobility aid is usually not needed except for fatigue or long distances.
At this level, patients require full-time use of this breathing support.
What is a ventilator?
This type of transfer is possible at C5–C6 with assistance or adaptive devices like a sliding board.
What is a level transfer using a sliding board?
People with C7 injuries can achieve this type of transfer with or without minimal assistance.
What is an independent bed-to-chair transfer?
With proper bracing, individuals at this level may walk for this purpose, even if not full time
What is household ambulation or exercise ambulation?
These two ADLs are typically performed independently and efficiently.
What are dressing and toileting?