A spinal cord injury is a direct injury to the spinal cord or damage to the bones, tissues or blood vessels that affect the spinal cord. According to Medline Plus, risk factors include participation in dangerous or strenuous physical activities, not wearing protective gear during work or play or diving into shallow water. Symptoms vary depending on the location and extent of spinal cord injury. Immediate treatment is necessary to prevent further damage, and rehabilitation may be necessary to restore maximum function to a patient.
Corticosteroids
MayoClinic.com states that methylprednisolone, or Medrol, is a medication used to treat spinal cord injury. This medication is a corticosteroid, which reduces inflammation around the injured spinal cord. When the spinal cord is damaged, surrounding damaged tissue can cause inflammation, which further damages the nerve cells of the spinal cord. Thus, reducing inflammation immediately after injury can prevent further damage to the spinal cord.
Immobilization
A patient with a spinal cord injury may need to be immobilized for some time after the injury. Doctors may recommend placing the patient in traction to prevent movement of the head, neck and back. Traction can also keep the spinal cord in the proper alignment, which allows it to properly heal. In addition, an extensive period of bed rest may be needed to allow the damaged bones and surrounding spinal tissue time to heal.
Surgery
In cases of severe damage, immediate surgery may be necessary to remove fluid or tissue that is compressing the spinal cord. Medline Plus states that a surgeon may perform a decompression laminectomy, which involves reducing part of the vertebrae to reduce pressure in the spinal column. After a laminectomy, the surgeon may fuse the spinal cord with screws and rods to offer further stability. Risks of this procedure include infection, excessive bleeding, blood clots or further nerve or spinal cord damage.
Therapy
In most cases, physical and occupational therapy is necessary after a spinal cord injury. A patient may be admitted to a rehabilitation hospital, in which a therapist will work with the patient throughout the day. The goal of rehabilitation is to help the patient regain coordination, strength and flexibility to the point where the patient can complete activities of daily living. In addition, rehabilitation hospitals offer a support staff that can help the patient cope with the injury and possible disability. Complete participation in exercises and a positive attitude can lead to a better recovery.
