The spinal cord is a bundle of nerves that carries messages between the brain and the rest of the body. Injury to the spinal cord disrupts these messages, causing decreased or total loss of movement, sensation, and function below the level of injury.
Acute spinal cord injury (SCI) is trauma from a contusion (bruise), a partial tear, or complete tear (transection) in the cord. Depending on where it happens, an acute spinal cord injury can cause:
- Muscle weakness, paralysis, or loss of feeling in the trunk (torso), arms, and/or legs
- Muscle spasticity (tight or rigid muscles)
- Breathing problems
- Numbness and tingling in the arms and legs
- Problems with heart rate and blood pressure
- Digestive problems
- Loss of bowel and bladder function
- Problems with sexual function
Care from one of our physiatrists (physical medicine and rehabilitation doctors) starts in the hospital a day or two after an acute spinal cord injury. Our rehabilitation team will coordinate non-surgical treatment and continue managing care throughout recovery in the hospital, and beyond.
Why Choose UHealth?
Research breakthroughs in spinal cord injuries. You know you’re getting the most up-to-date treatments and care because we’re actively discovering new and better ways to prevent and restore function after spinal cord injury. Our onsite research is funded by the National Institute on Disability, Independent Living, and Rehabilitation Research.
Internationally-recognized Spine Institute in South Florida. The Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation is part of the renowned Spine Institute which means you get care from the most trusted and experienced rehabilitation providers in South Florida.
Multispecialty care with teams built around your condition. Our rehabilitation team works closely with neurologists, neurosurgeons, pulmonologists, urologists, and others to customize your treatment plan. You have access to leading-edge non-surgical and minimally invasive therapies for pain. And, you get a faster diagnosis and better care when we’re all working together for you.