BACK PAIN DIAGNOSIS AND BACK PAIN RELIEF EXPERT
LESS INVASIVE AND NO SURGERY SPINE SPECIALIST
Spinal cord injuries (SCIs) can result from both traumatic and non-traumatic events. Traumatic SCIs are most commonly caused by:
Non-traumatic causes include infections, tumors, degenerative diseases, ischemia-reperfusion injuries, and congenital conditions[5]. The spinal cord, a critical conduit for nerve signals between the brain and the rest of the body, when damaged, can lead to significant loss of function and mobility[4].
Classification of SCIs is based on:
Spine Surgery
Including Minimally Invasive Surgery and Microsurgery is often necessary to remove bone fragments, foreign objects, or to stabilize the spine. Procedures like spinal fusion, laminectomy, or decompression aim to prevent further injury and stabilize the spine[4][8]. Unstable Spine Fractures need surgery with implants to fix the Spine and prevent further Spine Nerve / Cord damage and to allow healing and a better chance of recovery explains Dr Prem Pillay, a Neurosurgeon and Spine Injury Expert.
Spine and Spinal Cord (Nerve) Rehabilitation
Physical Therapy: Focuses on improving motor function, preventing contractures, and enhancing overall mobility[2].
Occupational Therapy: Helps in adapting to daily activities with assistive devices[1].
Speech Therapy: For those with cervical injuries affecting speech or swallowing.
Medications
Used to manage symptoms like pain, spasticity, and autonomic dysreflexia[4].
Adaptive Equipment
Wheelchairs, braces, communication devices, Functional Neurological Electrical Stimulation and now Robotics are crucial for increasing independence[4].
SCIs can lead to numerous complications:
Post-Traumatic Syringomyelia (PTS): A delayed complication where a syrinx (fluid-filled cavity) forms within the spinal cord. Detection involves MRI, often with dynamic imaging to observe CSF flow[1].
Treatment: Conservative management for stable cases, surgical decompression for symptomatic progression, including shunting to drain the syrinx[1] where indicated (Syringo-Subarachnoid Shunt, Syringo-Peritoneal Shunt).
Robotics: Robotic exoskeletons are being developed to assist with walking and rehabilitation, enhancing mobility and reducing complications like pressure ulcers[3].
Spinal Cord Stimulation: Techniques like epidural stimulation have shown promise in restoring some motor function by activating neural circuits below the injury site[3].
Stem Cell Therapy: Research into stem cells aims at promoting regeneration and repair of damaged spinal cord tissue. Early trials have shown potential in reducing syrinx size and improving clinical symptoms[1].
Neuroprotective Strategies : Advances in understanding the secondary injury mechanisms have led to treatments aimed at reducing cell death, controlling inflammation, and promoting regeneration[3].
Precision Medicine: Utilizing biomarkers and advanced imaging to tailor treatments to individual patients, potentially improving outcomes[3].
Spinal cord injuries pose significant challenges due to their complexity and the profound impact on an individual’s life. While the prognosis for regaining lost function remains guarded, advancements in surgical techniques, rehabilitation strategies, and emerging therapies like robotics, and Spinal Cord Stimulation treatments offer hope for better management and potential recovery. Continuous research and clinical trials are essential to further understand and treat this debilitating condition, aiming to enhance the quality of life for those affected by SCI.
With many years of experience in treating Spinal Cord Injury and access to the latest technological advancements, Dr Prem Pillay offers patients the highest standard of care. From accurate diagnosis to tailored treatment plans, our approach aims for the best possible outcomes for individuals affected by this challenging condition.
If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with a Spinal Cord Injury, we welcome you to seek consultation with our specialized team. Together, we can develop a comprehensive evidence based and personalized treatment strategy that addresses your unique needs and provides the best chance for a positive outcome.
[1] https://now.aapmr.org/post-traumatic-syringomyelia/
[2] https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4303793/
[3] https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11278467/
[4] https://www.novahospital.co.in/overview-of-spinal-cord-injury/
[5] https://www.nature.com/articles/s41392-023-01477-6
[6] https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/spinal-cord-injury/symptoms-causes/syc-20377890