Spinal cord injuries (SCI) are severe conditions that impact the spinal cord's ability to communicate with the brain, affecting motor, sensory, and autonomic functions. A spinal cord injury refers to any damage or injury to the spinal cord. The spinal cord’s main function is to send and receive signals between the brain and the rest of the body. If any part of the spinal cord is damaged, it can result in permanent changes in the strength, mobility, feeling, and other functions of the body. Because of the severe and permanent effects of spinal cord injuries, patients often suffer from psychological and mental effects post-injury. A spinal cord injury is a dangerous and debilitating condition that must be assessed and treated by qualified doctors for spinal cord injury treatment at the earliest.
Symptoms Of A Spinal Cord Injury
A spinal cord injury can manifest in the form of sensory, motor, and autonomic symptoms caused by the severity of affected signals between the spinal cord and the brain.
Diagnosis
In addition to physical examination and assessment of the symptoms, a doctor for spinal cord injury in Singapore may carry out the following tests and scans:
Medications
NSAIDs and other over-the-counter and prescription painkillers can help control pain and inflammation around the spinal cord.
Support Devices
Devices such as braces, splints, and halos help keep the area of the body around the injury stable while allowing patients to move around while wearing them.
Spinal Cord Injury Surgery
Surgical procedures may help relieve pressure on the cord and repair any damage to the spinal cord.
Traction
Traction applies a stretching force to the spine through weights or pulleys to create proper alignment of the spine.
Long-Term Spinal Cord Injury Rehabilitation & Support
Patients may need long-term support and spinal cord injury rehab for many weeks, months, and even years following the injury and treatment. Physical and occupational therapy is crucial to building strength and making the body adapt to the effects following the injury. Some patients, especially those with severe spinal cord injuries, may require continued in-home care and support.
Accreditations
Dr Gamaliel Tan is accredited with the following hospitals and medical centres:
Medisave & Insurance
Dr Gamaliel Tan is on the panel for the following insurance providers:
FAQs on Spinal Cord Injury
If someone suspects a spinal cord injury following an accident or trauma, it is best to immobilise the person and seek professional help as early as possible to rule out any severe condition and start treatment accordingly. Some of the emergency symptoms that may point towards a spinal cord injury after an accident include extreme pain or pressure in the neck, head, and/or back. Moreover, weakness or loss of control in any part of the body, numbness, tingling, or loss of sensation in the arms, hands, legs, or feet can potentially be caused by a spinal cord injury that must be assessed by a spine specialist at the earliest.
