Spinal Cord Injury: Treatment and Rehabilitation

After emergency treatment in the ER, a person with a spinal cord injury is likely to be admitted to the hospital. Or, he or she may be transferred to a special spinal cord injury center.

Treatment

Three procedures are crucial in treating spinal cord injuries:

• Treatment with the steroid medication methylprednisolone to reduce swelling. Used within 8 hours after an injury, this medication may help prevent nerve damage.

• Relief of pressure on the spine using surgery or traction (a mechanical system of weights).

• Treatment to stabilize the spine using screws, metal plates, and other devices. This is often done during an operation. Sometimes, traction may be used instead.

Rehabilitation

Once the injury is stable, the focus is on supportive care and rehabilitation. Supportive care helps prevent other health problems such as skin sores. Rehabilitation improves a person's emotional and physical recovery. It includes:

• Physical therapy to increase movement in muscles and joints. This can help most people with spinal cord injuries regain some function.

• Counseling to help you and your loved one cope with the possible permanent effects of a spinal cord injury.

Outlook for the Future

Doctors once believed that damaged nerve cells could not be repaired. But recent studies show this may not be true. Now, scientists are searching for ways to regrow injured nerves. The outlook for people with spinal cord injuries is brighter today than ever before.