If you have experienced a spinal cord injury, you may benefit from exercises and therapies suggested by your doctor and a physical therapist. Injuries to the spine may cause pain along with reduced function, range-of-motion, flexibility and stamina. For optimal healing, follow your physical therapist's directions and advice regarding spinal injury rehabilitation.
Spine Anatomy
The spine is made up of multiple vertebrae, or bumpy ridges that help protect the spinal cord from injury or damage. The neck or cervical section of the spine is made up of seven vertebrae, while the thoracic or upper to mid-back section is made up of 12 vertebrae. The lumber or lower portion of the spine is composed of five lumbar vertebrae. Each section of the spine offers different movements and physical capabilities for body movement. Hundreds of nerves trail to parts of the body from either side of the spinal column and control movements of your hands, arms, legs, feet and trunk.
T12 Injury
Injury to the lower portion of the thoracic spine designated by T12, or the twelfth vertebrae of the thoracic region of the spine, may affect control of your arms and legs, as well as your ability to flex your hips. In many cases, rehabilitation of thoracic injury helps restore movement and function of the lower trunk and extremities, though prognosis depends on the severity of the injury or spinal cord damage in this area of the spine, and whether the bony structures of the spinal column or vertebrae in this area have been fractured by accident or weakened by disease.
Deep Breathing
Deep breathing exercises help prevent pulmonary complications caused by a T12 injury. Deep breathing not only serves to exercise the lungs, but to expand the ribcage and muscles, tendons and ligaments found throughout the chest cavity. Follow your physical therapist's instructions regarding stance and number of repetitions of deep breathing exercises, as it will depend on your specific case treatment plan.
Stretching
Stretching provides a gentle and low-impact method for strengthening the ligaments, tendons and muscles that support the spine and increase flexibility and range-of-motion of the trunk. For example, stand with your feet shoulder-width apart and bend slightly forward, without causing pain in the back. Gradually increase your forward bend until you can place your hands on your thighs or knees. Your physical therapist will help guide and support you during such exercises. You may also engage in seated floor stretches. Sit on a floor or bed with your legs extended. Keeping your back straight, reach forward with your hands and place your hands on your thighs, knees or shins, depending on your flexibility, without causing pain.
Cat Curls
Your physical therapist may suggest cat curls to help increase back strength. For example, get down on your hands and knees on the floor. Pull in your lower abdominal muscles and round your back upward toward the ceiling. Tuck your pelvis under. Hold that arch for three to five seconds and then relax, keeping your back aligned with your shoulders and hips. Repeat this exercise as directed by your therapist.
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