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The spinal cord is the means by which the brain and body communicate - controlling every muscle in the body. The cord itself is very soft and covered by protective layers, ligaments and bone. This is called the spinal column. The spinal cord consists of many nerves which send messages to and from the brain.
Those nerves going TO the brain take messages of SENSATION like pain, heat, cold and touch. They are called SENSORY NERVES. Those nerves going FROM the brain carry INSTRUCTIONS for the muscles. They are called MOTOR NERVES because they initiate movement.
When the spinal cord becomes injured, the brain and body are no longer able to communicate, therefore, all parts below the level of the injury will not be able to function as before. Once severed or badly crushed, the spinal cord cannot be repaired, and whatever the degree of paralysis, it is permanent.
The functions affected include: Movement, sensation, respiratory function, bladder, bowel, sexual function, blood pressure and temperature control.
Spinal injury is a physical problem, and no mental impairment results from it.
Very often, spinal cord injury is experienced in an accident, with devastating and immediate consequences. Some of the issues that spinal cord injured face include accommodation, employment, transport, personal assistance, access to buildings, poverty and isolation.
However, with the support of PARAQUAD SA, many go on to regain purposeful lives in society.
