Research shows that individuals treated for an acute spinal cord injury are 4 times more likely to regain movement and sensation compared to those who were not given treatment.
Acute spinal cord injuries can be devastating and life-altering, but with the right medical care and treatment, many patients are able to make significant progress in their recovery.
Understanding how your medical team approaches your injury is key to helping you get back to a life close to normal functioning.
In this blog, we’ll take a look at the different types of acute spinal cord injury treatments, their efficacy, and potential risks. We’ll also explore how to find specialized treatment and support services that can help you on your journey to recovery.
Definition of Acute Spinal Cord Injury (ASCI)
When nerves in the spinal cord are damaged, an acute spinal cord injury (ASCI) occurs. The impulses that are sent from the brain to the rest of the body are carried by the spinal cord.
The effects of an ASCI can range from mild to severe, depending on the location and extent of the damage.
What are the Common Symptoms and Signs of an Acute Spinal Cord Injury?
The signs and symptoms of an acute spinal cord injury can vary widely.
Common symptoms include:
Loss of sensation or feeling in the body below the level of injury
- Paralysis or lack of movement on one side or both sides of the body
- Pain, numbness, or tingling sensations in any part of the body
- Difficulty breathing
- Muscle spasms or uncontrollable movements
- Loss of coordination or weakness in any part of the body
What are the Causes and Risk Factors of Acute Spinal Cord Injury?
An ASCI can be caused by a variety of traumatic events. The most common causes are vehicular accidents, falls, and sports-related activities.
Other potential causes include medical conditions such as tumors and infections, or any type of physical trauma that compresses the spine.
Certain people may be at a higher risk for ASCI due to underlying medical conditions or their lifestyle.
Risk factors include:
- Participation in contact sports or strenuous physical activities
- Having a pre-existing condition that affects the spine, such as arthritis or scoliosis.
- Engaging in dangerous activities such as drinking alcohol and operating a motor vehicle
- Working in high-risk occupations, such as construction
Learn more about the types of spinal cord injury here..
Importance of Immediate Treatment for Acute Spinal Cord Injury
Treatment for an acute spinal cord injury is essential to reduce the risk of further damage.
The primary treatment goals are to:
- Stabilize the spine,
- Prevent additional injuries, and
- Reduce inflammation.
Emergency medical personnel may immobilize a person with a suspected ASCI, typically using a neck brace or backboard, in order to prevent further damage.
The individual may also receive medications to reduce swelling around the spine and pain.
Surgery may be required in certain circumstances in order to stabilize the spine or relieve any pressure that is being placed on the spinal cord.
How is an Acute Spinal Cord Injury Diagnosed/Evaluated?
Symptoms like those listed above should be treated as soon as possible if you experience them
Computed Tomography (CT) scan:
A Computed Tomography (CT) scan, also known as a CAT scan, is an advanced imaging test that utilizes X-rays and computer technology to generate highly detailed images, often referred to as slices, of the human body. This non-invasive procedure provides comprehensive visualization of various body parts, including bones, muscles, fat, and organs. In comparison to general X-rays, CT scans offer superior levels of detail, making them an invaluable tool in medical diagnostics.
Neurological tests:
Your doctor may also perform neurological tests to assess the extent of nerve damage.
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).
Utilizing powerful magnets, radio frequencies, and advanced computer technology, this medical test captures intricate images of internal organs and structures within the body, offering remarkable precision and clarity.
X-ray.
This method produces detailed pictures of inside tissues, bones, and organs on photographic film by making use of beams of electromagnetic energy that are invisible to the human eye.
Blood test:
Blood tests are used to measure levels of certain substances in the blood, providing valuable insight into a range of conditions. In some cases, an acute spinal cord injury may be indicated by elevated levels of enzymes or proteins.
These tests can help identify problems with sensation, strength, coordination, reflexes, and balance.
When a person with a traumatic spinal cord injury is admitted to an intensive care unit, they receive close monitoring for potential complications such as breathing problems and heart issues.
Additionally, a comprehensive neurologic examination is conducted as early as possible. This thorough assessment aims to accurately diagnose the precise level and severity of the injury, which in turn plays a crucial role in determining the appropriate treatment approach and establishing expectations for the individual’s potential level of recovery.
Different Types of Acute Spinal Cord Injury Treatments
The goal of acute spinal cord injury treatment is to reduce the severity and extent of the injury, minimize disruption of normal functioning, and promote recovery.
Different treatments are recommended depending on the type and location of an ASCI.
Acute Spinal Cord Injury Treatment is divided into two main categories:
- Non-surgical and
- Surgical.
Let us see them in detail:
A) Non-Surgical Treatment Approaches
Non-surgical treatments for acute spinal cord injuries are typically focused on reducing pain and inflammation, protecting the injured area from further harm, and preserving function.
Physical therapy
Physical therapy can help improve the strength and range of motion in the limbs, as well as help maintain muscle tone. It is also used to help reduce pain, minimize spasticity, and decrease swelling around the spine.
Physical therapy
Occupational therapy typically focuses on regaining independent living skills such as cooking or dressing oneself or finding ways to adapt activities of daily living.
Speech/language therapy:
Speech and language therapy can help improve communication, cognition, and swallowing abilities.
Pain management
Pain management techniques may include medications, injections, nerve blocks, or other non-surgical procedures.
Psychological counselling or support
These treatments aim to help the individual maximize their mobility, independence, and quality of life while also providing emotional support.
Medications
Depending on the severity and location of the injury, medications may be prescribed to reduce inflammation, relieve pain, improve bladder control, and/or manage other symptoms.
B) Surgical Treatment Approaches
Surgical options for acute spinal cord injury treatment are generally only recommended if there is a chance of significant improvement. Depending on the type and severity of the injury, surgery may involve relieving pressure from swelling around the spine or stabilizing the vertebrae to avoid further damage.
Decompression:
Decompression is a surgical procedure that involves removing fragments of bone or damaged tissue that are pressing on the spinal cord. This type of surgery can provide relief from pain and reduce inflammation.
Spinal fusion:
Spinal fusion is a surgical procedure in which two or more vertebrae are joined together using screws, rods, and plates. Spinal fusion can help stabilize the spine and reduce pain by preventing further movement of the affected vertebrae.
Spinal instrumentation:
Spinal instrumentation is a surgical procedure that uses screws, plates, rods, or wires to stabilize the spine and reduce pain.
Novel Therapies and Advanced Treatment Approaches
Recent advances have opened up a range of new treatment options for people with acute spinal cord injury.
- Stem Cell therapy:
Cell-based therapy involves the use of bone marrow stem cells or other types of adult stem cells to create new neurons and support tissue regeneration. This type of therapy has shown promising results for treating acute spinal cord injuries. Here the goal is to re-establish the communication between the brain and spinal cord. This is done by injecting stem cells directly into the spinal cord. A safe and effective treatment approach for acute spinal cord injury is still being researched.
Take a look at the procedure of stemcell therapy in India.
- Nanomedicine:
Nanomedicine is a branch of medicine that deals with the manipulation and delivery of drugs at the nanoscale. This type of therapy has shown promise in treating acute spinal cord injuries by targeting damaged cells and delivering therapies directly to them. It can also be used to coat nerve fibers, allowing for better regeneration and communication between neurons.
- Robotic technology:
Robotic technologies are tools designed to help people with paralysis gain greater independence. These devices include exoskeletons, robotic wheelchairs, and other assistive technologies.
Acute Spinal Cord Injury Treatment is a complex and ever-evolving field and requires a multidisciplinary team of specialists to provide comprehensive care for those affected by an injury.
Rehabilitation and Recovery
Once the acute phase of treatment is over, the focus shifts to rehabilitation and recovery.
The goal of rehabilitation is to help maximize a person’s independence and quality of life while also reducing complications related to the injury. Depending on the type and severity of their injury, people with ASCIs may benefit from physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech/language therapy, psychological counseling, alternative therapies such as yoga or acupuncture, and other treatments.
It is important to note that recovery from an acute spinal cord injury can take a long time and there is no one-size-fits-all approach. It is important that the treatment plan for each person be customized to meet their unique requirements and objectives.
Although recovery from an ASCI may be slow, it is typically possible to regain some level of functioning. With proper care and support, people with SCIs can live full and meaningful lives.
At the end of the day, recovery from an acute spinal cord injury is a lifelong journey that requires dedication and hard work. But with determination and perseverance, people who are affected by an ASCI can still lead active and fulfilling lives.
Conclusion
With new treatments being developed every day, there is hope that further advances will open more options and allow people with acute spinal cord injuries to lead full and independent lives.
It is important to note that while Spinal Cord Injury Treatment can be highly effective, individual outcomes vary widely depending on a range of factors such as the severity and location of the injury, the patient’s age, and overall health, and how soon treatment was initiated.
It is also important to recognize that treatments for spinal cord injuries require a long-term commitment and patience as recovery can take time. With hard work, dedication, and a positive attitude, many individuals are able to maximize their potential and live full lives despite an acute spinal cord injury.
As such, it is best to consult with a healthcare professional for more specific information about the best treatment options for each individual.
This is where MedicoExperts can offer assistance.
We understand that each patient is unique, and we strive to provide them with the highest-quality care possible. With treatments like Stemcell Therapy, Robotic technology, we offer advanced treatments to help patients with acute spinal cord injuries.
Our goal is to ensure that all our patients receive the best possible care and support as they strive to reach their maximum potential.
The team at MedicoExperts is dedicated to helping individuals affected by an ASCI find the best possible treatments for their needs. We specialize in providing comprehensive support services, from diagnosis and treatment options to rehabilitation and recovery resources. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you or a loved one with acute spinal cord injury treatment.
Doctors, medical professionals, and other medical experts on our team are available to answer any questions you may have. We strive to provide the best possible care for all our patients and look forward to hearing from you soon.
Please don’t hesitate to reach out if you need any further information about acute spinal cord injury treatment or would like to discuss your options with an expert.
FAQ :
Q1: Which vitamin is beneficial for spinal cord health?
A. Vitamin C plays a crucial role in the recovery of spinal cord injuries as it aids in tissue repair and neurotransmitter production. Given their limited mobility, individuals with spinal cord injuries are more susceptible to developing pressure sores.
Q2. What are the benefits of stem cell therapy for people with acute spinal cord injury?
A. Stem Cell Therapy has been found to be beneficial in treating acute spinal cord injuries as it can create new neurons and help support tissue regeneration. It is believed that stem cells have the ability to bridge damaged nerve fibers, allowing for better communication between neurons. Studies have also shown that stem cells can reduce pain and improve movement in those affected by spinal cord injuries.
