Understanding Spinal Cord Injuries

What is a spinal cord injury?

A spinal cord injury (SCI) occurs when damage to the spinal cord disrupts communication between the brain and the rest of the body. The spinal cord is a crucial bundle of nerves that extends from the lower brainstem through the vertebral column, transmitting motor and sensory signals that control movement, sensation, and autonomic functions.

SCIs can result from traumatic events such as motor vehicle accidents, falls, sports injuries, or acts of violence. They can also be caused by non-traumatic factors, including infections, tumors, or degenerative conditions. The severity of the injury depends on both the location along the spinal cord and the extent of the damage.

Injuries are classified as:

• Complete SCI: Total loss of motor and sensory function below the injury level.
• Incomplete SCI: Partial preservation of motor or sensory function below the injury level.

Spinal cord injury key facts and statistics

What does the spinal cord do?

The spinal cord serves as the body’s main communication pathway, transmitting signals between the brain and every part of the body. These signals control movement, sensation, and many automatic functions like breathing and reflexes. When the spinal cord is injured, it can disrupt these signals, leading to temporary or permanent changes in movement, sensation, or bodily functions.

How the spinal cord works

• Cervical region (neck): Controls arms, hands, and diaphragm
• Thoracic region (mid-back): Supports trunk stability and some organ function
• Lumbar and sacral regions (lower back): Control legs, hips, and bowel/bladder function

Where is the spinal cord located?

The spinal cord is located within the vertebral column (spine), which is made up of 33 vertebrae that form the backbone. It runs from the base of the brain down to the lower back, typically ending near the first lumbar vertebra (L1 or L2).

Which spinal nerves affect which parts of the body?

The spinal cord is organized into segments, each of which is connected to spinal nerves that control movement and sensation in specific parts of the body. These nerves function as a communication network, transmitting signals from the brain to the muscles and organs while also relaying sensory information back to the brain.

Here’s how each section of spinal nerves functions:

• Cervical nerves (C1-C7): Control movement and sensation in the head, neck, shoulders, arms, hands, and diaphragm, playing a critical role in breathing.
• Thoracic nerves (T1-T12): Influence the chest muscles, some back muscles, and various organ systems, contributing to functions like breathing and upper body movement.
• Lumbar nerves (L1-L5): Manage signals to and from the lower abdomen, back, buttocks, parts of the sexual organs, and the legs, supporting activities like walking and balance.
• Sacral nerves (S1-S5): Control signals for the thighs, lower legs, feet, most external sexual organs, and the area around the anus, playing a key role in mobility and bowel and bladder.

Conditions and injuries that can affect the spinal cord

Spinal cord injuries can be caused by traumatic events or medical conditions. Knowing the common causes and risk factors helps with both prevention and understanding potential challenges.

Recovering from a spinal cord injury

Recovering from a spinal cord injury is a unique journey for each individual. The extent of recovery depends on the location and severity of the injury, as well as the rehabilitation and support received.

In many cases, as swelling decreases, some individuals may regain partial function — especially if they have an incomplete spinal cord injury. While full recovery is rare, improvements can continue for months or even years after the injury.

Although there is currently no cure, advances in treatment, rehabilitation, and assistive technology make it possible to adapt, regain independence, and live a meaningful and fulfilling life after a spinal cord injury.