When the spinal cord is damaged, many problems can result, including movement and sensation impairments below the level of injury. People with spinal cord damage are more prone to medical issues than the average person, including pressure sores and urinary infections. Vitamin C can play a role in both prevention and treatment of such complications.
Spinal Cord Injury Complications
After a spinal cord injury, the nerves that control the movement and sensation may no longer be fully functional around or below the level of injury. Because sensation is often compromised and because people with spinal cord injuries cannot shift their weight as easily as the average person, they are more vulnerable to pressure sores. In addition, the nerves that leave the spinal cord also control the muscles of the bladder. If these are not functioning normally, a person may require assistance to empty his bladder, leaving him more prone to kidney and bladder problems. Vitamin C can play a role in healing for both of these issues.
Vitamin C and Wound Healing
Vitamin C is an important component of wound healing. According to Medline Plus, vitamin C plays a vital role in the formation of collagen. Collagen is the substance that makes up the connective tissues in the body, including the skin. Without vitamin C, skin repair is not possible. In fact, Medline Plus says that it is essential for healing sores. The National Guideline Clearinghouse adds that vitamin C deficiencies often result in delayed healing of wounds. Because people with spinal cord injuries are so prone to pressure sores, getting a daily dose of vitamin C is even more important. While the exact dosage necessary has not been thoroughly researched, the National Guideline Clearinghouse recommends 100 to 200mg daily for minor pressure sores, and 1,000 to 2,000mg daily for severe ones.
Vitamin C and Urinary Infections
People with spinal cord injuries are also more prone to urinary tract infections, or UTIs, than the average person. This is especially true for those who have to use a catheter regularly to empty their bladder. The catheter can pick up bacteria on the skin as it passes into the bladder, leaving the urinary system more vulnerable to infection. The Northwest Regional Spinal Cord Injury System says that taking vitamin C regularly can help paraplegics and quadriplegics ward off a UTI. They recommend between 500 to 2,000mg daily for prevention and treatment.
Getting Enough Vitamin C
Because the guidelines vary for people with spinal cord injuries, talk to your doctor or a nutritionist about how much vitamin C is appropriate for your particular needs. The recommended dose for the average adult male is 90mg daily, according to Medline Plus. Because vitamin C is water soluble, a person can take up to 2,000mg daily safely. However, Medline Plus says that vitamin C toxicity can occur if larger amounts are ingested. You can get enough vitamin C in your diet by eating foods such as citrus fruits, leafy greens and melon. In addition, vitamin C supplements are available over-the-counter in various strengths.
References
- Medline Plus: Vitamin C
- National Guideline Clearinghouse: Spinal Cord Injury: Evidence-Based Nutrition Practice
- National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke: Spinal Cord Injury: Hope Through Research
- Northwest Regional Spinal Cord Injury System: Urinary Tract Infections: Intermittent Catheterization
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