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Spinal Cord Injury Complications

Spinal cord injury occurs when there is damage to the spine. Damage is caused by either a trauma or medical condition and can cause loss of function, mobility or feeling. The type and location of the injury determines the effect and symptoms the individual will incur. After a spinal cord injury, secondary complications can occur, causing more discomfort.

  1. Gastrointestinal System

    • Spinal cord injuries can cause urinary and bowel problems when the nerves controlling function are damaged. Urinary complications include urinary tract infection (UTI) and kidney infection. Inability to control bowel movements has been associated with spinal cord injuries. The loss of control may be impaired, making it difficult for feces to pass through the intestines. Medications are a treatment option for UTI's and bowel difficulties. Also, a high-fiber diet is suggested for maintaining bowel regularity.

    Skin

    • The skin is susceptible to pressure sores and skin breakdown with spinal cord injury patients. When excessive pressure is applied to a particular portion of the body, the injured patient is desensitized and lacks feeling in the area where the sore forms. The loss of elasticity in the skin, decrease of muscle tone and sensation are also contributing causes to skin breakdowns. Changing positions frequently and ensuring areas are kept dry are ways to prevent pressure sores.

    Muscle Spasms

    • Spinal cord injury patients have the possibility of developing muscle spasms in the extremities. These involuntary reflexes occur from nerves in the injured area becoming more sensitive after the injury. The brain is not able to send signals to control the involuntary movement. If spasms are severe, muscle relaxers and muscle strengthening exercises are prescribed for treatment. Surgery is only required in severe cases when conventional treatment fails.

    Sexual Functioning

    • Individuals who are inflicted with a spinal cord injury can have problems with sexual dysfunction. According to the Mayo Clinic, many men can still have erections with spinal cord injuries, but 90 percent are not able to ejaculate during intercourse. Women are less susceptible to having issues with sexual dysfunction or fertility. Consult a physician to talk about options available to aid with sexual functioning if problems exist.

    Respiratory Functioning

    • Respiratory complications for spinal cord injury patients include pneumonia, asthma, pleural effusion, pulmonary edema, pulmonary embolism, upper respiratory infection and respiratory failure. Postural draining, spirometer (lung volume apparatus) and breathing machines are ways to prevent pulmonary complications. Individuals susceptible to respiratory difficulties are encouraged to get a yearly flu vaccine.

    Conclusion

    • Spinal cord injury patients are predisposed to secondary complications which cause discomfort. Weight control issues, neurogenic pain (burning and stinging), blood clots, depression, leg edema (swelling) and spinal pain are amongst other complications that can arise.

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