The term “spinal cord injury” refers to damage to the spinal cord.
It can be caused by traumatic events, tumors, degenerative diseases, infections and vascular alterations of the spinal cord.
The annual global incidence ranges from 40 to 80 cases per million inhabitants and 90% of these cases are due to multiple trauma.
Temporary or permanent disorders may be caused according to the nature of the damage produced in the spinal cord, ranging from a partial compromise to a complete section of the spinal cord.
Symptoms will depend on the severity of the lesion and its location in the spinal cord. The higher the lesion, the greater the neurological involvement in the motor, sensory and/or respiratory areas.
In addition, they often affect the regulation of the intestine, bladder, breathing, heart rate and blood pressure.
The rehabilitation plan indicated for patients after a medical evaluation will depend on the type of sequelae produced by the spinal cord injury, taking into account sensory, motor and respiratory compromise.
Statistics show that the main causes of spinal cord injuries are traffic accidents, falls, occupational accidents, sports injuries and violent acts.