There are various types of spinal cord injuries that can happen after a serious accident, and the impact on a person’s mobility depends largely on the severity of the injury rather than the nature of the accident itself. Surprisingly, severe spinal injuries can arise from seemingly minor incidents if the spine is damaged in a delicate spot, potentially leading to partial or complete loss of mobility.
When the spinal cord is damaged, it’s known as a lesion. If the lesion is in the neck area, it may result in Quadriplegia (also called Tetraplegia). If the lesion is in the thoracic, sacral, or lumbar regions, it can cause Paraplegia. The damage is classified as ‘complete’ or ‘incomplete’ based on how severe the paralysis is and how it affects the spine, limbs, and overall sensation.
### Quadriplegia (Tetraplegia)
Quadriplegia or Tetraplegia occurs when the spinal cord is injured above the first thoracic vertebra. This type of injury impacts all four limbs, often leading to paralysis from the neck down. Beyond mobility, it can affect physical sensations, cause respiratory issues, and lead to problems with internal organs like the bladder and bowel, mainly due to the paralysis of chest and abdominal muscles. Many individuals with this kind of injury use stabilizing devices like full spine wheelchairs because the neck area is particularly delicate and hard to stabilize.
People with Quadriplegia usually require significant assistance and find it challenging to live independently. This condition also impacts their families and caregivers, who need to adjust to new routines and caregiving responsibilities.
### Paraplegia Spinal Cord Injury
Paraplegia affects the legs but not the arms, depending on the location and severity of the spinal injury. Usually, those with Paraplegia use a wheelchair, but some might undergo rehabilitation and learn to walk with crutches. Injuries to the thoracic, lumbar, or sacral regions of the spine can lead to Paralysis of the legs.
### Thoracic, Sacral, and Lumbar Spinal Cord Injury
**Thoracic Spinal Injuries:**
These injuries are less common due to the protection offered by the rib cage. When they do occur, they can lead to paraplegia or the loss of sensation and even affect the individual’s ability to control their body temperature. Stabilizing the patient might require a brace.
**Sacral Spinal Injuries:**
Located lower in the spine, these injuries affect control signals to the thighs, lower legs, pelvic area, and feet, often resulting in various levels of sensation and mobility issues.
**Lumbar Spinal Cord Injuries:**
Injuries here are relatively common, often where slipped discs occur. These can result in anything from mild back pain to more severe conditions like paralysis. However, strains and minor pains are more frequent than serious damage. For those with lower back pain, one effective treatment available is the mild procedure by Vertos Med.
It’s crucial to seek proper medical attention and explore all treatment options to manage spinal injuries effectively.