Introduction

Damage to any part of the spinal cord or nerves at the end of the spinal canal. A traumatic spinal cord injury may happen because of a sudden blow or cut to the spine. A spinal cord injury often causes permanent loss of strength, sensation and function below the site of the injury.

Or - Spinal Cord Injuries (SCI) Occupational Therapy refers to the assessment, treatment, and rehabilitation services provided by an Occupational Therapist (OT) to individuals who have sustained an injury to the spinal cord.

A spinal cord injury

Can result in:

Partial or complete paralysis
Reduced strength and movement
Loss of sensation
Difficulties with self-care and daily activities
Reduced ability to work and live independently

What Does an OT Do for Spinal Cord Injuries?

An Occupational Therapist helps the person regain as much independence as possible by:

Assessing functional abilities and limitations
Training in daily living activities such as dressing, bathing, and eating
Teaching wheelchair mobility and transfers
Recommending assistive devices and adaptive equipment
Assessing home and workplace accessibility
Improving hand and upper limb function where possible
Developing strategies for independent living
Assisting with return-to-work planning

Example

A person who becomes paraplegic after a motor vehicle accident may be assessed by an OT to determine:

Ability to perform daily activities independently.

Need for a wheelchair and adaptive equipment.

Home modifications required, such as ramps and accessible bathrooms.

Capacity to return to employment.

Spinal cord injuries

Introduction

A spinal cord injury

What Does an OT Do for Spinal Cord Injuries?

Example

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