Physical Therapy and Spinal Cord Injuries

Spinal cord injuries due to an accident, disease, or a fall disrupt the smooth information exchange between the brain and other body parts. They are devastating and life-altering as they can cause temporary or permanent changes in the spinal cord's functioning, leading to various physical and neurological problems. Recovering from a spinal cord injury is not simple, and the entire process will depend on the severity of the damage. A team of specialists from different disciplines help a patient recover with a personalized rehabilitation plan. Physical therapy for spinal cord injuries is an essential part of the recovery process to strengthen the muscles and improve mobility to make the patients as independent and functional as possible. 

Spinal Cord Injuries

Several problems are associated with spinal cord injuries (SCI). People can experience paralysis, difficulty breathing, excruciating pain, loss of balance and mobility, posture issues, and reduced functional movement depending on the injury's nature. 

Several studies indicate the positive impact of physical therapy on patients suffering from spinal cord injuries. Recovery from such injuries is an ongoing process, and a physical therapist works with the patient on a specialized program based on individual needs that mainly include:

• Stretching

• Aerobics for improved cardiovascular strength

• Strength and mobility training 

• Massage therapy

• Breathing training

• Flexibility training

The Program

This program aims to maximize motor and sensory skills, enhance circulation, prevent other health issues and complications like urinary tract infections and respiratory illnesses, prepare them to perform their routine activities through alternate means, and participate and integrate into the community. 

Physical therapy helps patients with spinal cord injuries by working on the muscles that have weakened. Most physical therapists suggest several motion exercises to facilitate circulation and keep joints from stiffening. Patients can get the help of a caregiver or therapist or perform these exercises independently, depending upon their condition. They can also pick from a range of workouts like yoga, gait training, exercise bands and resistance bands, rowing, hand cycling, wheelchair exercises, and weightlifting, as advised by the therapist. The physical therapist may also advise on using a wheelchair, exercise equipment, or muscle stimulators for faster recovery. 

Excercise

The role exercise and physical activity play to keep us fit and lead a healthy lifestyle are undeniable, especially for people suffering from a spinal cord injury. Physical therapy not only works as a motivational tool but also helps in promoting neural recovery. Before starting any treatment program, it is essential to set goals you target to achieve, prepare mentally and physically, and look for resources to reach those goals. 

Selecting a qualified and experienced physical therapist is the key to faster recovery from spinal cord injuries. You can either enroll in a rehabilitation center or opt for an at-home program. Opting for physical therapy has several benefits, including increased mobility, improved circulation, minimized muscle atrophy, and reduced anxiety and depression. 

If you have suffered a spinal cord injury, contact a certified physical therapist for a custom treatment plan.

If you are looking for occupational or physical therapy, vestibular rehab, wheelchair training, lea

rning to walk, unweighting aquatic therapy, or other services in the Phoenix area, please call Touchstone Rehabilitation at 602-277-1073.