Spinal cord injuries (SCI) can significantly affect movement, sensation, strength, and independence, often requiring long-term rehabilitation and adaptation. At Cambridge Physiotherapy & Rehab Center, neurological physiotherapy focuses on maximizing functional ability, supporting safe mobility, and improving quality of life following spinal cord injury.
Understanding Spinal Cord Injuries
A spinal cord injury occurs when damage to the spinal cord disrupts communication between the brain and the body. This can result in partial or complete loss of movement and sensation below the level of injury. The effects of SCI vary widely depending on the location and severity of the injury, making individualized rehabilitation essential. Spinal cord injuries are often misunderstood as static conditions, but function and independence can improve with targeted, ongoing physiotherapy.
The spinal cord plays a critical role in controlling movement, posture, and reflexes. Injury can alter muscle tone, coordination, and balance, leading to challenges with mobility and daily activities. Maintaining optimal biomechanics and addressing compensatory movement patterns is important to reduce secondary complications such as joint stiffness, pain, and overuse injuries.
Common Symptoms of Spinal Cord Injuries
Symptoms following a spinal cord injury depend on the level and completeness of the injury but commonly include:
- Partial or complete loss of movement below the injury level
- Reduced or absent sensation
- Muscle weakness, spasticity, or abnormal tone
- Impaired balance and postural control
- Difficulty with transfers, walking, or wheelchair mobility
What Causes Spinal Cord Injuries?
Spinal cord injuries typically result from traumatic or medical events and often involve multiple contributing factors. Common causes include:
- Traumatic injuries such as motor vehicle accidents or falls
- Sports-related or recreational injuries
- Compression or damage from spinal fractures or dislocations
- Tumours, infections, or inflammation affecting the spinal cord
- Degenerative or vascular conditions impacting spinal cord function
Our Approach to Treating Spinal Cord Injuries
At Cambridge Physiotherapy & Rehab Center, located on Langs Drive, spinal cord injury rehabilitation is guided by individualized neurological physiotherapy principles. Treatment focuses on maximizing remaining function, promoting safe movement strategies, and supporting independence through structured, goal-oriented care that evolves with each stage of recovery.
Comprehensive Neurological Assessment
Physiotherapy begins with a detailed assessment of strength, sensation, muscle tone, balance, posture, and functional abilities such as transfers, mobility, and endurance. Therapists also evaluate seating, positioning, and safety considerations. This comprehensive evaluation helps guide a personalized treatment plan aimed at improving function, preventing complications, and supporting daily activities.
Customized Physiotherapy Treatment Strategies
Physiotherapy for spinal cord injuries is tailored to each individual’s level of injury and functional goals. Treatment strategies may include:
- Therapeutic and corrective exercises: Exercises to maintain strength, joint mobility, and cardiovascular health while supporting neuromuscular activation
- Balance and mobility training: Activities to improve sitting balance, standing tolerance, walking, or wheelchair mobility as appropriate
- Manual therapy: Hands-on techniques to manage stiffness, maintain joint range, and support comfort
- Functional task training: Practice of transfers, positioning, and daily movements to improve independence and safety
- Activity and lifestyle modification: Guidance on energy conservation, pressure management, and use of assistive devices
- Transfer training: Using techniques educated by our Physiotherapist, getting in and out of bed, chair, wheelchair, and toilet transfers can make activities of daily living more independent and safe.
Education and Long-Term Management
Education is a key component of spinal cord injury physiotherapy. Individuals and caregivers receive guidance on safe movement techniques, pressure injury prevention, posture, and home exercise routines. Education supports self-management, reduces the risk of secondary complications, and promotes long-term functional independence.
Our Comprehensive Services
Why Choose Cambridge Physiotherapy & Rehab Center?
Cambridge Physiotherapy & Rehab Center provides evidence-based neurological physiotherapy focused on individualized goals, functional progress, and long-term support. Care emphasizes collaboration, education, and adaptability to meet changing needs following spinal cord injury.
Our Commitment to Care
- Professional and compassionate care
- Modern neurological physiotherapy techniques
- Focus on education and long-term functional outcomes
Supporting Recovery and Daily Function
Physiotherapy can play an important role in improving mobility, independence, and quality of life after a spinal cord injury. If you are seeking spinal cord injury treatment, Cambridge Physiotherapy & Rehab Center can support your ongoing rehabilitation and functional goals. Book an appointment today to get started!
Personalized Care for Common Neurological Conditions
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Spinal Cord Injury Treatment Cambridge FAQs
Can Physiotherapy Help Improve Function After a Spinal Cord Injury?
Physiotherapy can help individuals with spinal cord injuries maximize their functional abilities by improving strength, mobility, balance, and movement efficiency. While recovery depends on the level and severity of the injury, targeted rehabilitation can support meaningful improvements in independence, reduce complications, and enhance quality of life over time.
Is Exercise Safe After a Spinal Cord Injury?
Exercise is generally safe when guided by a qualified physiotherapist who understands spinal cord injury considerations. Programs are tailored to account for muscle tone changes, cardiovascular response, fatigue, and safety. Supervised exercise helps reduce the risk of injury and supports overall physical health.
How Does Physiotherapy Help With Mobility and Transfers?
Physiotherapy focuses on training safe and efficient movement strategies for transfers, sitting balance, standing, walking, or wheelchair use. Repetitive practice and task-specific training help improve confidence, reduce strain, and support independence in daily activities.
When Should Physiotherapy Begin After a Spinal Cord Injury?
Physiotherapy often begins as soon as it is medically appropriate, sometimes during early stages of recovery. Early intervention helps prevent stiffness and deconditioning, while ongoing therapy supports continued functional gains and adaptation over time.
