Physiotherapy for Spinal Cord Injury: Supporting Recovery and Function

What Is a Spinal Cord Injury?

A spinal cord injury (SCI) occurs when the spinal cord is damaged due to trauma or disease. This disrupts the communication between the brain and body, potentially causing paralysis, loss of sensation, and reduced bodily function below the level of injury.

Causes:

• Traumatic accidents (e.g. car crashes, falls, sports injuries)

• Tumours or spinal infections

• Degenerative diseases or spinal stenosis

• Inflammatory conditions (e.g. transverse myelitis)

Symptoms:

• Paralysis or muscle weakness (paraplegia or quadriplegia)

• Numbness or loss of sensation

• Spasticity or uncontrolled muscle movement

• Bladder or bowel dysfunction

• Difficulty breathing (in high-level injuries)

• Neuropathic or chronic pain

Physiotherapy Treatment:

✅ Strengthening unaffected muscle groups
✅ Joint mobility and spasticity management
✅ Transfer and wheelchair training
✅ Gait training (if applicable)
✅ Breathing and postural control exercises
✅ Equipment and assistive technology guidance

Long-Term Recovery:

Recovery from SCI is unique to each person and can be a long-term process. Physiotherapy focuses on maximising function, preventing complications, and promoting independence — helping individuals adapt and thrive in daily life.