Spinal Cord Injury Rehabilitation
A spinal cord injury can affect movement, sensation and many aspects of everyday life. Rehabilitation focuses on maximising functional abilities, developing independence and supporting participation in daily activities.
At Pain & Stroke Rehab Centre, rehabilitation is planned according to the level and nature of injury, medical condition, functional abilities and personal goals.
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Every spinal cord injury is different
The spinal cord carries messages between the brain and the rest of the body. An injury can interrupt these messages and affect movement, sensation and other body functions below the level of injury.
The effects depend on the level and severity of the injury. Some individuals experience changes in all four limbs, while others mainly experience changes in the lower limbs.
Spinal cord injuries may be classified as complete or incomplete based on the neurological examination. The pattern of preserved movement and sensation varies between individuals.
How can spinal cord injury affect daily life?
The functional effects depend on the neurological level, completeness of injury and associated complications.
Movement & Strength
Weakness or loss of voluntary movement may affect the arms, trunk or legs, depending on the injury level.
Sensation
Changes in touch, pain, temperature and body-position sensation can influence safety and movement.
Balance & Trunk Control
Reduced trunk control and postural stability can affect sitting balance, reaching and transfers.
Bladder & Bowel Function
Changes in neurological control may affect bladder and bowel management and require coordinated medical care.
Respiratory Function
Depending on the injury level, respiratory muscle function and cough effectiveness may be affected.
Daily Independence
Mobility, transfers, dressing, bathing and other everyday activities may require new strategies or assistance.
Building function through individualised rehabilitation
Rehabilitation is planned around the individual's neurological status, medical stability, physical capacity, equipment needs and personal priorities.
- Positioning and postural management
- Trunk control and sitting balance training
- Strengthening of available muscle groups
- Range-of-motion and flexibility exercises
- Bed mobility and transfer training
- Wheelchair mobility and skills training
- Standing and gait training, when appropriate
- Functional activities and self-care practice
- Education on pressure injury prevention and safety
What are we working towards?
The goal is to improve functional ability and help individuals participate as independently and safely as possible.
Postural Control
Improve trunk stability, sitting balance and control during functional activities.
Mobility & Transfers
Develop safe strategies for bed mobility, transfers, wheelchair use and walking when appropriate.
Functional Independence
Practise daily activities and develop strategies that support participation at home and in the community.
Understanding neurological and functional status
A structured assessment helps identify preserved abilities, impairments, safety concerns and rehabilitation priorities.
Neurological Examination
Assessment of motor and sensory function. The ISNCSCI examination and AIS classification may be used by appropriately trained clinicians.
Musculoskeletal Assessment
Assessment of muscle strength, range of motion, joint mobility, muscle tone and contracture risk.
Trunk & Balance
Assessment of sitting balance, postural control, reaching ability and functional stability.
Mobility Assessment
Assessment of bed mobility, transfers, wheelchair skills and walking ability where relevant.
Functional Independence
Evaluation of self-care, mobility and assistance needs. The SCIM may be used to assess independence after SCI.
Respiratory & Skin Considerations
Review of respiratory function, cough effectiveness, skin integrity and pressure injury risk as appropriate.
Measuring functional changes
Appropriate outcome measures help track changes and guide rehabilitation decisions.
SCIM
Spinal Cord Independence Measure – evaluates functional independence in people with spinal cord injury.
WISCI II
Walking Index for Spinal Cord Injury II – assesses the level of assistance and devices required for walking.
Walking Tests
The 10-Metre Walk Test and 6-Minute Walk Test may be appropriate for individuals who can walk safely.
A structured and collaborative process
Rehabilitation goals are reviewed as functional abilities, health status and personal priorities change.
01. Assessment
Understand neurological status, physical abilities, functional needs and safety considerations.
02. Goal Setting
Identify realistic and meaningful goals based on individual priorities.
03. Rehabilitation
Follow an individualised programme involving mobility, strengthening and functional training.
04. Progress Review
Monitor functional changes and adapt the programme according to progress and needs.
Take the next step towards greater independence
If you or a family member is living with a spinal cord injury, contact our team to discuss rehabilitation and functional goals.
Contact Our Team 044 2432 1998