Physiotherapy for Spinal Cord Injury

Spinal Cord Injury refers to an injury which is the result of damage to any part of the spinal cord. This can typically occur due to either trauma or from disease or degeneration (e.g. cancer, infection). The majority of spinal cord injuries occur from trauma such as road traffic accidents, falls or violence. Spinal cord injuries can cause a wide range of physical impairments and disability depending on the level and severity of the injury.

The higher up the spinal cord the injury occurs and whether the injury was complete or incomplete will influence the level of disability the individual presents with. At Best Home Therapy, we offer personalised treatment plans for individuals with spinal cord injury to improve their physical abilities, social engagement and overall function.

Symptoms of Spinal Cord Injury:

The symptoms of a spinal cord injury can vary depending on the level and severity of the injury, but some common signs include:

1. Loss of sensation or movement below the level of injury

2. Muscle weakness or paralysis

3. Spasticity or muscle rigidity

4. Loss of bladder or bowel control

5. Difficulty breathing

6. Changes in blood pressure or heart rate

Physiotherapy Management of Spinal Cord Injury:

At Best Home Therapy, we provide personalised physiotherapy treatment plans for individuals with spinal cord injuries. Our experienced physiotherapists work with each individual to create a comprehensive treatment plan that may include the following:

1. Strengthening and Conditioning: Our physiotherapists use exercises and activities to help individuals improve their strength, endurance, and overall physical conditioning. This may include exercises to improve upper and lower body strength, as well as cardiovascular conditioning.

2. Range of Motion Exercises: We use exercises to help individuals regain movement in their affected limbs. These exercises may include stretching, passive range of motion exercises, or active-assisted exercises.

3. Spasticity Management: We use specialised techniques such as stretching, splinting, and electrical stimulation to help manage spasticity and muscle rigidity.

4. Postural Education: We provide education and training to help individuals with spinal cord injuries improve their posture and body mechanics. This can help reduce the risk of secondary complications such as pain or injury.

5. Assistive Devices: We may recommend the use of assistive devices such as braces, splints, or orthotics to help individuals with spinal cord injuries improve their mobility and function.

6. Wheelchair Skills Training: We provide training and education to help individuals with spinal cord injuries develop the skills necessary to use a wheelchair safely and effectively if necessary.

7. Functional Training: We provide functional training to help individuals with spinal cord injuries regain their ability to perform daily activities such as dressing, grooming, and household tasks.

8. Vocational Training: We help individuals following spinal cord injury develop necessary skills and function to optimise the chance of employment

At Best Home Therapy, we understand the challenges that individuals with spinal cord injuries face. That's why we provide personalised physiotherapy treatment plans to help individuals with spinal cord injuries improve their physical abilities and overall function. Our experienced physiotherapists work with each individual to create a comprehensive treatment plan that meets their individual needs and goals.

Please contact us at 1300-01-2378 or visit us at 72 Maribyrnong st Footscray to schedule an assessment or to learn more about our services and start your journey towards improved mobility and function with a spinal cord injury.