A spinal cord injury (SCI) is a highly impactful medical condition, often leading to drastic changes in one’s quality of life. Damage to any area of the spinal cord can cause a significant loss of motor function and sensory perception below the area of injury, affecting the injured person’s ability to perform daily tasks and their quality of life. At Momentum Medical, we provide innovative services to help individuals with SCIs regain independence and improve their quality of life. This article delves into the nature of spinal cord injuries, their impact, and the specialized services offered at Momentum Medical to aid recovery.
What is a Spinal Cord Injury?
A spinal cord injury occurs when damage to the spinal cord results in functional loss, such as mobility or sensation. Causes can include trauma from car accidents, falls, sports injuries, or medical conditions like infections or tumors. SCIs are classified as either complete or incomplete, depending on the severity of the injury. In a complete injury, there is a total loss of sensation and function below the injury site. In an incomplete injury, some function remains.
Symptoms and Diagnosis
Symptoms of an SCI vary depending on the location and severity of the injury. Common symptoms include:
- Loss of movement
- Loss of sensation, including the ability to feel heat, cold, and touch
- Loss of bowel or bladder control
- Exaggerated reflex activities or spasms
- Changes in sexual function, sexual sensitivity, and fertility
- Pain or intense stinging sensation caused by damage to the nerve fibers
Diagnosing a spinal cord injury (SCI) usually requires a comprehensive evaluation comprising medical history, physical examination, and diagnostic procedures such as X-rays, MRI, or CT scans.
Immediate and Long-Term Effects
The immediate effects of a spinal cord injury can be devastating, with potential paralysis and loss of function below the site of injury. Long-term effects can include chronic pain, respiratory problems, cardiovascular issues, and a higher risk of infections. Depression and anxiety are also common psychological symptoms as individuals adjust to the changes in their lifestyle and capabilities.
Comprehensive Care for Spinal Cord Injury
Momentum Medical offers a multidisciplinary approach to managing and treating spinal cord injuries. Our services are designed to address our patients’ immediate and long-term needs.
Interventional Pain Management
Chronic pain is a common issue for those with a spinal cord injury. Our interventional pain management services aim to reduce pain and improve quality of life through non-surgical techniques. We offer various treatments, including nerve blocks, spinal cord stimulation, and other advanced pain management strategies.
Physical Therapy
Physical therapy is crucial for maintaining and improving mobility and function. Our skilled physical therapists work with patients to develop customized rehabilitation programs focusing on strength, flexibility, and functional training. These programs are tailored to each patient’s specific needs and goals.
Chiropractic Care
Chiropractic care can be beneficial for managing pain and improving spinal health. Our chiropractors use non-invasive techniques to help alleviate pain, improve function, and enhance overall well-being. This can be particularly helpful for managing secondary complications associated with SCIs.
Spinal Decompression Therapy
Spinal decompression therapy offers a non-surgical solution aimed at easing pressure on the spinal cord and nerves. Patients dealing with pain and discomfort from spinal cord compression can find significant relief with this therapy.
Shockwave Therapy
Momentum Medical provides an advanced treatment called shockwave therapy. This therapy harnesses the power of sound waves to accelerate the body’s natural healing processes and alleviate pain non-invasively. It can be particularly beneficial for treating musculoskeletal pain and promoting tissue repair after a spinal cord injury.
Multidisciplinary Support
Our doctors, therapists, and support staff work together to provide holistic care. We understand that recovery from an SCI involves physical and emotional healing, as well as psychological well-being. Our support services include counseling, nutritional guidance, and assistance with lifestyle adjustments to help patients and their families cope with the challenges of SCI.
Dealing with a spinal cord injury is a challenge, but with the right support, people can still lead incredibly fulfilling lives. Momentum Medical is committed to delivering personalized and empathetic care to help our patients reach their fullest potential for healing and recovery. If you or a loved one is dealing with a spinal cord injury, contact Momentum Medical to learn more about how we can support your journey to recovery.
For more information, contact Momentum Medical.
References:
- When a Loved One Dies in an Accident: Wrongful Death Claims – Dianoya. https://dianoya.com/when-a-loved-one-dies-in-an-accident-wrongful-death-claims/
- Spinal cord injuries caused by semi-truck crashes | The Law Office of Nathan C. Cooley, PLC. https://www.ncooleylaw.com/blog/2024/01/spinal-cord-injuries-caused-by-semitruck-crashes/
- Treatment options and benefits of a complete spinal cord injury – TRAINFES. https://www.trainfes.com/en/blog/lesion-medular-completa/