Injury to the spinal cord can arise from several mechanisms. First, and most common, spinal cord injuries are the result of injuries or trauma to the spine. They are most common in the neck, where the structures are weaker and more mobile than in the back. Fractures and dislocations are the usual causes. Injury to the spinal cord can also be the result of blockage of arteries supplying the spinal cord. This can occur through trauma, vascular disease or emboli from the heart. Acute disc herniations can also abruptly damage the spinal cord. Traumatic injuries to the spinal cord occur most commonly at the first and second cervical level, between the fourth and sixth cervical level and between the eleventh thoracic level and the second lumbar level. Cervical spine injuries leading to spinal cord injuries are frequently associated with severe head injuries.
Causes of Spinal Cord Injury
Spinal cord injuries are most commonly the result of trauma to the spine. Vascular disease or emboli from distant sources can produce strokes of the spinal cord. Concussion of the spinal cord can occur with transient dysfunction. Electrocution and lightning both can significantly injure the spinal cord. Herniated discs and tumors may compress and damage the spinal cord as well. Hemorrhages, particularly epidural hematomas may occur. As they expand in the space adjacent to the spinal cord injury may occur. Anticoagulation is a risk factor for developing epidural hematomas of the spinal cord.
Signs and Symptoms of Spinal Cord Injury
When the spinal cord undergoes severe injury three major symptoms develop. They include complete loss of movement below that level, loss of sensation below the level of injury and spinal shock. Spinal shock causes the complete loss of reflex activity below the level of injury of the spinal cord. Even though these reflex pathways are somewhat intact, they do not function. It usually takes weeks to months for these reflex activities to appear. At that time, they are often exaggerated. When injuries to the spinal cord are less severe, there is variable loss of strength, sensation, bowel, bladder and sexual function.
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Medical Content Last Updated on 07/12/2008
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