WHAT IS THE SPINAL CORD

The spinal cord is connected to the brain and lies within the vertebral column. It sends out nerves that control all four limbs, respiration, urinary bladder & bowel motions. It also receives nerves that carry all sensations from the body

The vertebral column and spinal cord may be injured by falling from heights (tress, buildings), road traffic accidents, sports injuries (diving, rugby, football, gymnastics), industrial and war injuries.


WHAT HAPPENS IF THE SPINAL CORD IS INJURED OR DISEASED

1. Limbs will be paralyzed
Lower limbs only - Paraplegics
All four limbs - Tetraplegics




2. Persons will lose all sensations below the injury. This may lead to development of pressure sores

3. Lose control of urinary bladder and the bowels

4. Sexual dysfunction

5. Majority of these patients are permanently paralyzed, and they become wheelchair bound for life.

7. In many cases, there is disruption of family life and they become a burden on other family members

6. All these problems will lead to depression