Spinal cord injuries can be a consequence of serious accidents or activities. These are very serious and debilitating and may lead to paralysis and disability. There are different types of spine lesion and associated paralysis. Physiotherapy for spine injuries depends on the type of damage that has been inflicted to the spinal cord. Paraplegia and quadriplegia are terms used to describe the disability resulting from the injuries.

Initially, the level of injury is established in order to assess the degree of the resulting disability. Rehabilitation for spine injuries differs for paraplegics and quadriplegics. Quadriplegics have injuries on the cervical spine region whereas paraplegics have lesions in the thoracic, lumbar, or sacral region. Also, the length of the physiotherapy for spine injuries will differ since quadriplegics will have a more difficult time regaining control of their movements.

Passive movements will be the first form of physiotherapy for spine injuries. Great care must be taken so as not to damage the vulnerable tissues. Paralyzed limbs are moved each day to gradually acquire some range of movement. Before getting into a wheelchair, it is important to stabilize the bone injury first especially for older patients and those with injuries above T6.

When patients are already settled on a wheelchair, they should be taught to relieve pressure by lifting themselves every 15 minutes. This must become a habit so as not to develop pressure sores. Cushions can also be given to quadriplegic patients forgiving pressure relief.

Physiotherapy for spine injuries starts with the familiarity of the patient with the wheelchair. Operating the wheelchair should be taught to the patient. They should be trained on the basic skills of pushing and propelling the wheelchair. Next would be learning to balance themselves and strengthening their muscles with exercises provided by the physiotherapists. Independence from physiotherapists when transferring from the wheelchair to the bed, toilet, bath and car is possible after balance is stable. Regular standing, with the help of crutches if necessary, will help prevent contractures and reduce the risk of osteoporosis.

Paraplegics can have a 5-month stay in the hospital along with the physiotherapy for spine injuries. In contrast, quadriplegics which have more severe disability will be in the hospital for around 6-8 months. Rehabilitation and physiotherapy will help patients maximize their potential, regain the mobility of their muscles and injured tissues, help them get used to the wheelchair and to help them deal with everyday life easier.

Always follow the advice of a registered medical practitioner when attempting to rehabilitate your spine injuries. A physiotherapist can help with re-establishing control over your movements and assist you in improving your quality of life.