Spinal Cord Injury (SCI): Anatomy, Symptoms, Causes, Risk Factors & Treatment

What is Spinal Cord Injury (SCI)?

Spinal cord injuries (SCI) pertain to damage in any part of the nerves that run down the center of your back.  Injuries to the nerves that run throughout the spinal canal can result in permanent changes in sensation, strength, and contribute to impaired body functions below the site of the injury.  

Anatomy of Spinal Cord Injury

Spinal cord injuries usually begin with a sudden, traumatic impact to the spine that fractures or dislocates the vertebrae.  Displaced bone fragments, disc material, or ligaments bruise or tear into the spinal cord tissue.  Fractures within the vertebrae can also compress the nerves and destroy axons of the nerve cell making it impossible to carry signals up and down the spinal cord.  Some injuries can result in full recovery while others may have complete paralysis.  

Symptoms of Spinal Cord Injury

1. Moeite met lopen
2. Loss of control of the bladder or bowels
3. Loss of movement in the arms or legs
4. Increased numbness or tingling in the extremities
5. Unconsciousness
6. Hoofdpijn
7. Pain or stiffness in the neck area
8. Signs of shock

Causes of a Spinal Cord Injury

1. Sudden trauma
2. Head injuries during physical activity
3. Accidental falls
4. Post surgery complications
5. Improper body mechanics
6. Slechte houding
7. Diving accidents

Risk Factors for a Spinal Cord Injury

1. Males
2. Between the ages of 16-30, or older than 65
3. Engaging in risky behavior involving water or vehicle sports
4. Bone or joint disorders such as arthritis or osteoporosis

Treatment of Spinal Cord Injury

ASTR-traktaties spinal cord injury op een zachte, effectieve en natuurlijke manier door spieronevenwichtigheden, littekenweefsel, triggerpoints,  fascia-beperkingen, ontsteking, houding, lichaamsmechanica die vaak de bron van de pijn zijn. ASTR hanteert een holistische benadering om de grondoorzaken van pijn aan te pakken, niet alleen de symptomen. ASTR-behandeling kan thuis gedaan worden voor spinal cord injury.