What is Acute Spinal Cord Injury?

Acute spinal cord injury (SCI) is a sudden and traumatic injury to the spinal cord that can have a severe impact on a person’s ability to move, feel, and function.

The spinal cord is a vital part of the nervous system that carries signals between the brain and the rest of the body.

When the spinal cord is damaged, it can disrupt these signals, leading to a range of symptoms and complications.

Symptoms of Acute Spinal Cord Injury

Symptoms of acute spinal cord injury can vary depending on the location and severity of the injury.

• Loss of sensation and/or paralysis in the limbs.
• Loss of bladder and/or bowel control.
• Numbness or tingling in the arms and/or legs.
• Loss of sensation and/or paralysis in the chest or abdomen.
• Pain or stinging sensation in the neck, back, or shoulders.
• Muscle spasms and/or spasticity.
• Difficulty breathing or coughing.
• Weakness in the arms and/or legs.
• Loss of coordination or balance.
• Fatigue or difficulty concentrating.
• Difficulty sleeping.
• Difficulty speaking or swallowing.
• Loss of sexual function.
• Depression or anxiety.

Causes of Acute Spinal Cord Injury

• Motor Vehicle Accidents: Motor vehicle accidents are the leading cause of acute spinal cord injuries. These injuries often occur when a person is thrown from the vehicle or when the spine is compressed by the force of the impact.
• Fall Injuries: Falls are the second most common cause of acute spinal cord injuries. Falls can occur from heights, such as ladders or roofs, or they can happen at ground level.
• Sports and Recreation Injuries: Sports and recreation injuries are the third leading cause of acute spinal cord injuries. These injuries can occur when a person lands on the head or when the spine is twisted suddenly.
• Medical Conditions: Medical conditions such as tumors, infections, or degenerative diseases can cause acute spinal cord injuries in some cases. These cases are less common, but can still occur.

Treatment of Acute Spinal Cord Injury

The treatment of acute spinal cord injury involves stabilizing the patient’s condition, preventing further damage, and promoting recovery.

Some treatment options include surgery, medications, and rehabilitation therapy. The goal is to manage symptoms, prevent complications, and help the patient recover completely.

Dr. Navin Tiwari
Consulting Neurologist