 |
|
Incomplete Spinal Cord Injury
An incomplete spinal cord injury is also known as partial
paralysis.
This condition is characterized by a reduction in the ability to move and feel bodily regions below the level of the cord damage. Patients suffering from partial paralysis have a much better prognosis for both functionality and partial restoration of nerve signal than individuals who endure a
complete spinal cord injury.
Incomplete Spinal Cord Injury Facts
Partially paralyzed patients have limited neurological signals traveling from their brains to the affected areas of their bodies. The higher the level of
spinal cord injury,
the more anatomical areas will be partially paralyzed. Typically, incomplete injuries to the
spinal cord
in the thoracic, lumbar or sacral regions will result in the reduction of nerve function in the legs and lower torso. This can lead to a mild reduction in the ability to walk or might entail a
paraplegic
condition. Incomplete cervical injuries are more severe and will reduce the nerve signal in all four limbs and at least some sections of the torso. This might bring on a minor functional disability or can create a
quadriplegic
condition.
Incomplete Spinal Injury Causes
The most common reason for a person to suffer an incomplete spinal injury is when their spinal cord becomes bruised, partially cut or compressed. Spinal cord tissue is very delicate and damage to the cord may or may not be permanent. Incomplete spinal injury might result from any number of disease processes or congenital and developmental defects which might attack the spinal structures. Many people also suffer incomplete paralysis due to traumatic injury to the spine, such as a gunshot,
car accident
or serious fall.
Incomplete Spinal Cord Injury Advice
Every patient with an incomplete injury faces a unique set of symptomatic circumstances. Some patients suffer a partial loss of both motor and sensory functions in the affected anatomical regions. Other individuals suffer the loss of only motor function or sensation. Diagnosis of an incomplete injury is complicated and often takes time consuming neurological testing. It is crucial to determine the exact effects of any spinal cord injury, so that appropriate treatment can be provided. Patients with partial cord injuries have historically responded far better to treatment than those with complete paralysis conditions. Some spinal cord damage might be correctable and innovative therapy options, such as
stem cell research,
offer additional hope for the future.
Incomplete Spinal Cord Injury to Back Pain Home
7/28/08 Revised 8/31/08
|
|
|
