Advertissement

Important Information On Spinal Cord Injury Exercises

By Raymond Jones


In general terms, spinal injuries include damages that occur in the backbone. They may occur in different parts and they might result to loss of backbone functioning such as sensation. The life of the person can also be at risk in the case of these injuries. These damages also bring lack of being able move and independence in case the affect certain body parts. These effects, on the other hand, can be reduced by spinal cord injury exercises which improve sensation and functioning of body to a greater extent.

Mostly, when the central nervous system suffers an injury, it is very hard to treat. Most of the damages caused become permanent though not all. However, there are certain activities such as physical rehabilitation and exercises are used to restore normal body functioning in non-permanent damages. This brings back personal independence. With this aspect, a SCI person should always take physical exercises with seriousness.

When these injuries occur, people tend to think that a person will become permanently and completely paralyzed down from the neck. Contrary to this, it is only in extreme cases whereby the neck CNS is severely damaged, that will lead to a person become completely paralyzed. Most people become paralyzed from the waist to the leg. The two problems usually occur but are determined by the severity, type, and form of injury.

These incidents come with different repercussions as some will live independently as normal while others might become disabled forever while others will have to walk using aids. When the damage is termed as complete, then the patient or a person will have to lose all the motor and sensory activities. In an incomplete case, some functions will remain normal. Persons suffering from incomplete damages are most likely going to regain back motor functions unlike those suffering from complete damages.

In order to reduce spasticity, it is very important for one suffering from SCI to keep moving. This term spasticity refers to a scenario in which muscles and joints become tight and stiff. This causes movement to be a problem. If not well looked at, it may cause pain and muscle spasms.

Normally, spasticity can be prevented by improving your flexibility through self and passive range of motion exercises. The passive range of motion is performed by physical, occupational, and rehabilitation therapists. This profession assists the patient to move the joints and the muscles. However, a patient can perform the self-range of motion exercises. Nevertheless, the self-exercise is only possible if you can partially or fully use your arm after an injury.

In the recovery process, patients suffering from SCI should carry out stretching activities on a daily basis. These activities help a lot in improving and retaining motion. Daily activities such as moving from wheelchair or dressing become very difficult in case your body muscles become tight. This limits ones independence.

These physicals also reduce the chances of a SCI patient from developing secondary complications. These complications may include pressure sores, infections in the urinary tract and respiratory disorders among others. The physical exercises try to reduce problems associated with chronic spasticity, weight gain and pain.




About the Author: