Stages of SCI Rehab
What stage of traumatic SCI is 1 day after the accident?
Acute
What are the levels of spinal cord lesions?
cervical
thoracic
lumbar
What age group most commonly has SCIs
adults more than children
How does PT manage respiratory difficulties in the acute phase?
secretion clearance
Name the stages of SCI
Acute
Sub-acute
Chronic
What is the most common level of SCI
cervical
What is the male:female ratio of SCI
2:1
- bed mobility and transfers
- wheelchair mobility
- gait and balance training
What is the most common cervical affected by SCI
C5
Name a symptom of lumbar SCI
Loss of function in the hips and legs, which may vary from weakness to complete immobility
Little or no voluntary control of bowel and bladder function
Difficulty walking, requiring assistive devices
Altered sensation or numbness in the lower body, affecting balance and coordination
Name three examples of events that can cause traumatic SCI
traffic accidents
violence
sports
falls
What other professionals do PTs work with to manage SCIs in the chronic phase for modifications at home?
OTs
What is the goal of the chronic stage of SCI
Compensatory and assistive approaches used
Name two symptoms of thoracic SCI
Significant weakness or loss of sensation in the legs (paraplegia)
Loss of feeling in the genitals or rectal region
Difficulty controlling bowel or bladder function
Pain radiating from the back to the arms, legs, or around the rib cage toward the chest
What percentage of SCIs are traumatic
90%
What is a key factor in PT rehab for SCIs in the chronic stage?
Gaining independence
Name the 4 goals of acute and sub-acute stage of SCI
Prevent secondary complications
Promote neuro recovery
Address underlying impairment
Maximize function
Name three symptoms of cervical SCI
Loss of sensation or feeling in the arms, hands, chest, or legs,
Paralysis such as quadriplegia. In severe cases, full paralysis may occur
Difficulty breathing or breathing problems
Loss of voluntary control over bladder and bowel functions
Pain or a burning sensation in the neck, shoulders, or arms
Impaired motor function that may affect fine motor skills
Spasticity or muscle stiffness
What is traumatic vs non-traumatic SCI
Traumatic SCI is caused by an external impact, like a car accident or a fall, leading to immediate damage to the spinal cord. Non-traumatic SCI is caused by internal factors such as a tumor, infection, or degenerative disease, leading to gradual spinal cord damage
Name 3 ways PTs perform rehab for SCIs in the acute stage.
Prevention and management of respiratory complications (i.e., pneumonia)
Prevention and management of circulatory complications
Prevent negative effects of immobilization through passive ROM and positioning (i.e., pressure wounds, contractures, etc.)
Maintaining ROM and strength
Monitoring neurological status