Do I have a spinal cord injury?
Spinal cord injuries can have a significant impact on your life. Injuries to your spine can result in permanent disabilities, including complete loss of motor function and paralysis.
The spinal cord acts as an information superhighway connecting the brain to the body. The vertebrae contain a multitude of nerves and vital tissues that connect your upper and lower body. These bones help protect the very delicate structures inside. But when the bones, tissues or nerves sustain an injury, information can no longer travel to and from the brain. This interruption can cause loss of bodily sensation and motor function below the injury site.
It is possible to get a spinal cord injury and not know it right away. A relatively minor accident might not seem like a big deal at the time. But there are specific signs to look for:
Loss of Movement: Partial or complete loss of muscle function in any part of the body.
- Loss of Sensation: Reduced or complete loss of sensation, including the ability to feel heat, cold, and touch.
- Pain or Intense Stinging: Pain or a burning sensation due to nerve damage.
- Inability to Feel Temperature Changes: Lack of ability to sense temperature changes in affected areas.
- Difficulty Breathing: Challenges with breathing, particularly if the injury is in the upper neck area.
- Bladder and Bowel Control Issues: Loss of control over bladder and bowel functions.
- Spasms or Reflexive Movements: Uncontrolled movements or spasms.
- Changes in Sexual Function: Altered sexual function, sensitivity, and fertility.
- Balance and Coordination Problems: Difficulty with balance and coordination.
- Weakness or Paralysis: Partial or complete paralysis in any part of the body.
- Exaggerated Reflex Activities: Overactive reflexes or spasms.
Spinal cord injuries are more common than you might think. Research from the National Spinal Cord Injury Statistical Center estimates that nearly 300,000 Americans are living with a spinal cord injury today. 78% of all new spinal injuries in 2018 are male. This prevalence may be due to the higher number of males in physically dangerous jobs like mining and manufacturing.
Some spinal cord injuries are severe and immediate. Others may not be so obvious. If you feel you may have a spinal cord injury, seek medical attention immediately. The longer you wait, the more severe the damage could become.
