Spinal Cord Injury Rehabilitation: Treat Earlier, Recover Better
Spinal Cord Injury Rehabilitation: The Earlier the Better
After a traumatic accident, early spinal cord injury rehabilitation may lead to improved functional outcomes for patients.
About Spinal Cord Injuries
More than 12,000 people survive spinal cord injuries (SCI) every year. Auto and motorcycle accidents are the leading cause of spinal cord injuries, accounting for almost half of new spinal cord injuries. Aside from vehicular accidents, other common causes include falls, acts of violence, sports injuries, bicycle accidents and worksite accidents.
Statistics show that men are more likely (80%) to experience a spinal cord injury than women. The reason behind this, according to The Spinal Cord Injury Journal is that “men are more likely to take risks and play sports that cause SCI. Spinal cord injuries are especially prevalent among younger men, who may be more prone to playing dangerous sports or engaging in risky activities such as high-speed driving.”
Spinal Cord Injury Rehabilitation and Treatment Options
Spinal cord injuries can be devastating. Seeking immediate, comprehensive treatment after surgery can help with long-term progress. According to a study presented by the Association of Academic Physiatrists, earlier rehabilitation is associated with modest improvements in functioning and physical independence for patients suffering from spinal cord injuries.
One method in particular, electrical nerve stimulation or functional neuromuscular stimulation (FNS), has been shown to make improvements in the function of peripheral nerves damaged by spinal cord injury (SCI). This method works by stimulating intact peripheral nerves to cause muscle contractions in paralyzed muscles. It can help to strengthen muscles, improve the cardiovascular system and stimulate gait for some patients.
As a patient’s condition improves, treatment options will focus on how to prevent further injury and empower them to return to an active and productive life. Patients will also receive help with adapting to new limitations at home.
Spinal Cord Injury Rehabilitation in New Jersey
Many SCI survivors may be reluctant to follow through with physical therapy because of its difficulty. However, getting the proper spinal cord injury treatment can help to rewire a patient’s brain and spine. As with all injury rehabilitation protocol, everyone is different based on the location and severity of their injury, age, gender, and previous physical activity and health conditions.
There is no way to prepare for something as traumatic as a spinal cord injury. If you or a loved one has suffered an SCI, it’s completely understandable to have questions. Call the skilled experts at1-732-444-3578 to schedule an appointment at one of our 23 convenient NJ locations and receive a treatment plan made specifically for you.
Twin Boro Physical Therapy: Voted Readers’ Choice Best of New Jersey
Voted Readers’ Choice Best of New Jersey, Twin Boro has provided NJ residents with high quality physical therapy and rehab for over 38 years! It’s our award-winning approach, proven results and reputation that sets us apart. By incorporating the One2Four program into each patient’s program, the latest and most reliable scientific research and techniques are incorporated into effective evidence-based practice. We deliver only the highest standard of care with the unique One2Four approach.
It’s no surprise that Twin Boro Physical Therapy has also been voted the best physical therapy practice in New Jersey by the readers of mycentraljersey.com.
