Reclaim you movement: Physiotherapy Solutions for spinal cord Injuries
A spinal cord injury (SCI) can change your life in an instant, affecting mobility, strength, and independence. As physiotherapists, we’re dedicated to helping you reclaim your movement and rediscover your potential. Through tailored physiotherapy solutions, we support you in navigating the challenges of SCI, working toward improved function, confidence, and quality of life.
Spinal cord injuries vary widely, from partial loss of function to complete paralysis, depending on the injury’s location and severity. Whether you’re dealing with weakness in your legs, limited hand function, or challenges with balance, our goal is to maximize your abilities and empower you to live as fully as possible. We understand the physical and emotional toll of SCI, and we’re here to guide you with compassion and expertise.
Your journey starts with a comprehensive assessment. We evaluate your muscle strength, sensation, coordination, and mobility to create a clear picture of your capabilities. For example, if you have a cervical SCI affecting arm function, we assess grip strength and shoulder movement. We explain these findings in simple terms, often using charts or models to show how the spinal cord impacts movement. This clarity helps you feel informed and involved in your recovery plan.
In the early stages, we focus on preventing complications and promoting function. Techniques like passive range-of-motion exercises keep joints flexible and reduce the risk of contractures. If you have some voluntary movement, we introduce active-assisted exercises, such as supporting your leg while you practice knee extension. For those using wheelchairs, we teach efficient transfer techniques and posture adjustments to enhance comfort and independence.
As you progress, we emphasize strengthening and functional training. We design exercises to target specific muscle groups, like core strengthening to improve sitting balance or arm exercises for pushing a wheelchair. For individuals with incomplete SCI, we might incorporate gait training with assistive devices like walkers or braces to rebuild walking skills. We also use tools like electrical stimulation to activate muscles and improve circulation, tailored to your needs.
Functional goals are at the heart of our approach. We work on practical skills, like transferring to a car or using adaptive equipment for daily tasks. If spasticity is a challenge, we use stretching, positioning, or splinting to manage muscle tightness. We also educate you and your caregivers on home exercises and strategies to maintain progress outside the clinic.
Reclaiming movement after an SCI is a deeply personal journey, and we’re with you every step of the way. Physiotherapy isn’t just about physical recovery—it’s about empowering you to adapt, thrive, and embrace life’s possibilities. With dedication and our support, you can achieve meaningful milestones, rediscovering strength, mobility, and independence.
