Spinal Cord Injury (SCI)
What is a SCI?
A spinal cord injury occurs when there is damage to the spinal cord due to trauma, disease, or degeneration. This can lead to partial or complete loss of function below the level of the injury, affecting movement, sensation, and even autonomic functions such as breathing, digestion, and circulation.
Levels of Spinal Cord Injuries
The severity and effects of an SCI depend on where the injury occurs along the spinal cord. The spinal cord is divided into four main regions:
Cervical (C1-C8) – Neck & Upper Body. The most severe type of SCI. Can cause quadriplegia (tetraplegia) which is paralysis of all four limbs and the torso. May impact breathing, requiring ventilatory support. Can affect speech, arm/hand function, leg function, and bladder/bowel control.
Thoracic (T1-T12) – Upper & Mid Back. Usually results in paraplegia which is paralysis of the legs while preserving upper body function. Individuals typically maintain arm and hand movement. Core strength and balance may be affected.
Lumbar (L1-L5) – Lower Back. May cause partial or complete paralysis of the legs (paraplegia). Arms should not be affected and core typically is not affected. Typically affects bladder, bowel, and sexual function. Individuals may use braces or assistive devices to walk.
Sacral (S1-S5) – Pelvic Region. Less common injury location. Often results in some loss of function in the hips, legs, and pelvic organs. Loss of control of bowel and bladder. Many individuals with sacral SCI can still walk with minimal to no assistance.
Choose Your Plan
Online Exercise Program
$49.99/month
7 DAY FREE TRIAL!
Personalized Schedule: Follow along on our app with a structured schedule and clear instructions.
Video Exercise Classes: Have the option to pick from pre-recorded exercise classes at various levels
Focused Exercises: Improve walking, cognition, strength, and balance.
Access to Experienced Instructors: Ask questions to a physical therapist with expertise in SCI care.
*Recommended for individuals with the ability to stand
No contracts - cancel anytime
SCI Recovery Program (1-on-1)
Each Session 60 minutes
$200= 1 session
$700/month= 4 sessions per month
$1,300/month= 8 sessions per month
What It Is: Personalized in-home physical therapy sessions focused on improving walking, mobility, strength, and functional independence.
Who It’s For: Individuals at any stage of their SCI journey, from newly diagnosed to many years out.
What’s Included: Personalized program that can include: gait retraining, balance recovery, and spasticity management after SCI.
No contracts - cancel anytime
*May be covered under insurance
3 Tips to Maintain Shoulder Health in SCI
Paraplegia vs Quadriplegia (Tetraplegia)
Paraplegia
Affects the lower half of the body (core, legs, pelvic organs)
NO ARMS NOR HANDS AFFECTED
Usually caused by injuries to the thoracic, lumbar, or sacral spine
Individuals may use wheelchairs, braces, or assistive devices for mobility.
Quadriplegia (Tetraplegia)
Affects all four limbs and the torso.
Caused by injuries to the cervical spine
May impact breathing, requiring ventilatory assistance.
Individuals often need extensive rehabilitation and adaptive equipment for daily tasks.
Complete vs Incomplete
Complete SCI – No sensation or movement below the level of injury. Signal is NOT getting to the bottom part of the spinal cord (S4/5)
Incomplete SCI – Some movement or sensation remains below the injury site. Signal is getting to the bottom part of the spinal cord (S4/5)
How Exercise & Therapy Can Help
Rehabilitation after an SCI is essential for maximizing function, preventing complications, and improving quality of life. Our SCI Recovery Program focuses on:
Strength & Mobility Training – Regain as much function as possible in affected areas.
Balance & Coordination Exercises – Prevent falls and improve movement control.
Wheelchair & Gait Training – Learn how to move safely with or without assistive devices.
Spasticity & Pain Management – Reduce muscle stiffness and discomfort.
Bladder & Bowel Control Strategies – Enhance quality of life through management techniques.
Home Safety & Independence Training – Learn strategies for daily living tasks..
Choose Your Plan
Online Exercise Program
$49.99/month
7 DAY FREE TRIAL!
Personalized Schedule: Follow along on our app with a structured schedule and clear instructions.
Video Exercise Classes: Have the option to pick from pre-recorded exercise classes at various levels
Focused Exercises: Improve walking, cognition, strength, and balance.
Access to Experienced Instructors: Ask questions to a physical therapist with expertise in SCI care.
*Recommended for individuals with the ability to stand
No contracts - cancel anytime
SCI Recovery Program (1-on-1)
Each Session 60 minutes
$200= 1 session
$700/month= 4 sessions per month
$1,300/month= 8 sessions per month
What It Is: Personalized in-home physical therapy sessions focused on improving walking, mobility, strength, and functional independence.
Who It’s For: Individuals at any stage of their SCI journey, from newly diagnosed to many years out.
What’s Included: Personalized program that can include: gait retraining, balance recovery, and spasticity management after SCI.
No contracts - cancel anytime
*May be covered under insurance
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