Spinal Cord Injury Awareness Day: Recognising Strength, Resilience, and Support

Spinal Cord Injury Awareness Day, marked annually on May 15th, is a vital opportunity to increase understanding and highlight the realities of living with a spinal injury. It's a day to recognise the incredible strength and resilience shown by people affected by spinal cord injuries (SCI) and to acknowledge the crucial role of support networks, including families and dedicated care services.

This day, organised by leading UK charities like the Spinal Injuries Association (SIA), Back Up, and Aspire, aims to shed light on the impact these injuries to the spinal cord have. We want to share information, promote understanding, and celebrate the achievements of people navigating life after injury, reinforcing that a fulfilling life is possible with the right support.

What is Spinal Cord Injury Awareness Day?

Spinal Cord Injury Awareness Day (SCIAD) takes place every year on May 15th. It serves as a national platform to raise the profile of spinal cord injuries. The goal is to educate the public, challenge misconceptions, and foster a more inclusive society for everyone affected.

The day highlights personal stories, often focusing on a specific theme each year, such as spinal cord injury at any age, emphasising that an SCI can happen to anyone at any stage of life. Recent statistics reveal the significant scale of SCI in the UK, with estimates suggesting around 4,400 people are injured or diagnosed each year – that's approximately 12 people every day.

The total number of people living with spinal cord damage in the UK is now thought to be over 105,000, much higher than previously estimated, making awareness and support more critical than ever.

Understanding Spinal Cord Injuries

So, what is a spinal cord injury? It refers to damage to the spinal cord, a vital bundle of nerve cells and fibres extending from the base of the brain and spinal cord down through the spinal canal. This structure acts as the main communication pathway, relaying messages that control movement, sensation, and automatic bodily functions like breathing and blood pressure.

The spinal cord is protected by the spinal column, which is made up of bones called vertebrae. The spinal cord ends in the lower back region, but the nerves continue downwards. An injury occurs when the spinal cord itself is damaged, either through direct spinal trauma or because of damage to the surrounding vertebrae and tissues.

This spinal cord damage disrupts the flow of sensory and motor signals between the brain and the body parts below the injury site. Any suspected spinal cord injury must be treated with extreme care from the moment it occurs to prevent further damage to the nervous system.

There are two main categories of causes for spinal cord injuries:

Traumatic Spinal Cord Injury

These are the most common causes, often resulting from sudden, forceful impacts. Examples of traumatic spinal cord injury include:

• Motor vehicle accidents
• Falls (especially significant for older adults)
• Acts of violence, such as assaults or gunshot wounds
• Sports injuries (contact sports, diving accidents)
• Workplace accidents

Non-Traumatic Injury

These injuries develop due to underlying medical conditions or diseases affecting the spine. Examples of non-traumatic spinal cord injury include:

• Spinal stenosis (narrowing of the spinal canal)
• Arthritis
• Infections
• Tumours
• Vascular problems affecting blood flow to the spinal cord
• Degenerative disc disease

The location of the injury along the spinal cord is crucial. An injury higher up, in the cervical spinal cord (neck area, involving the cervical spine and cervical nerves C1-C7), typically results in more widespread effects, potentially impacting arm and leg function (tetraplegia/quadriplegia) and breathing.

Cervical injuries often require significant support. Injuries lower down (thoracic, lumbar, or sacral spinal nerves) usually affect the legs and torso (paraplegia) and functions like bowel control and bladder control.

Spinal cord injuries are also classified by their severity:

• Complete Injury: This means there is a total loss of motor or sensory function below the level of the injury. The spinal cord cannot transmit any signals past the injured area.
• Incomplete Injury: In this case, some nerve signals can still travel past the damaged area. The person may retain some sensation or muscle control below the injury site. A person with an incomplete injury retains some degree of sensation or voluntary muscle movement below the injury site. There are different types of incomplete injuries, such as anterior cord syndrome, depending on which specific nerve tracts are affected.

It's important to understand that the initial damage (acute spinal cord injury) can sometimes be followed by secondary injury processes, like swelling, inflammation, or reduced blood flow, which can cause further spinal cord damage in the hours and days following the event. Managing this secondary phase is a key part of early medical treatment.

Risk factors associated with a higher chance of sustaining an SCI include being male, being aged between 16-30 or over 65, alcohol use contributing to accidents, and not using appropriate safety equipment (like seatbelts or sports gear).

Symptoms

Recognising a suspected spinal cord injury promptly is critical. The signs that suggest a spinal cord injury can vary widely, as the outcome of a spinal cord injury depends heavily on the severity of the damage. Immediate symptoms following a spinal trauma might include:

• Loss of movement (paralysis)
• Loss of, or changes in, sensation, including the ability to feel heat, cold, and touch
• Numbness or tingling sensations, often in hands or feet
• Pain or intense pressure in the neck, head, or back
• Weakness in any part of the body
• Loss of bowel control or bladder control
• Difficulty breathing or coughing
• Changes in sexual function
• An oddly positioned or twisted neck or back
• Changes in blood pressure and heart rate, potentially leading to neurogenic shock immediately after injury.

Anyone experiencing significant trauma to their head, neck, or back, or showing these symptoms, needs immediate medical attention. Sometimes, a significant head injury can occur alongside a spinal cord injury. Emergency responders are trained to stabilise the spine using a neck collar and backboard to prevent further damage during transport.

Diagnosis

Diagnosing spinal cord injuries involves a thorough neurological classification and medical assessment. In the emergency room, doctors will check for:

• Movement and sensation at and below the suspected level of injury.
• Reflexes.
• Breathing ability.
• Responsiveness and weakness.

Imaging tests are essential to visualise the spinal cord and surrounding structures:

• X-rays: Can quickly show fractures or misalignment of the bones called vertebrae.
• Computerised Tomography (CT) Scan: Provides more detailed images of bones and can detect fractures, bleeding, and issues like spinal stenosis.
• Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI): This is often the most useful test for viewing the spinal cord itself, as well as nerve roots, ligaments, and discs. It can reveal bruising, compression, inflammation, or damage to the soft tissues and nerve cells.

These tests help doctors determine the exact location and extent of the spinal cord damage, which guides treatment decisions. Neurological surgeons may be involved early on to assess the need for surgical intervention to relieve pressure on the spinal cord, remove bone fragments, or stabilise the cervical spine or other parts of the spinal column.

Living with spinal cord injury

Living with a spinal cord injury brings significant changes and challenges, requiring immense adaptation from the injured person and their family. However, it's also a journey marked by incredible resilience and the potential for a fulfilling life. The impact on daily life varies greatly depending on the level and completeness of the injury site.

Beyond the immediate loss of motor or sensory function, people with SCI are at risk of developing secondary health conditions. Awareness and proactive management of these are vital for long-term health and well-being:

• Pressure Ulcers: Reduced sensation and mobility increase the risk of skin breakdown from prolonged pressure. Regular repositioning and skin checks are essential.
• Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs): Changes in bladder control often necessitate catheter use, increasing the risk of UTIs. Careful hygiene and bladder management routines are key.
• Bowel Management: Loss of bowel control requires developing a regular management program, often involving dietary adjustments and specific techniques.
• Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT): Reduced mobility can lead to blood clots forming in the legs. Preventative measures include medication (anticoagulants) and compression stockings.
• Spasticity: Muscles below the injury level may become stiff or experience involuntary spasms due to altered nerve signals. Treatments can include medication and physical therapy.
• Chronic Pain: Nerve pain (neurogenic pain) is common after SCI, often described as burning or stinging. Managing this can be complex and may involve medication or other therapies.
• Autonomic Dysreflexia: A potentially dangerous condition (usually in injuries above T6) where blood pressure rises suddenly in response to stimuli below the injury level. Recognising triggers and responding quickly is critical.
• Respiratory Complications: Injuries affecting chest muscles or the diaphragm (cervical injuries) can impair breathing, increasing the risk of pneumonia. Respiratory muscle training may be needed.
• Mental Health: Adjusting to life with an SCI can understandably impact mental health. Depression and anxiety are common, and accessing psychological support is important for overall well-being.

Rehabilitation is a cornerstone of recovery and adaptation after a spinal cord injury. It's a team effort, often led by a rehabilitation specialist and involving:

• Physical Therapy: Focuses on maintaining and improving muscle strength, flexibility, and coordination where possible. This includes exercises to improve remaining voluntary muscle movement.
• Occupational Therapy: Helps individuals relearn daily living skills (dressing, eating, personal care) and adapt tasks to their abilities. Physical and occupational therapists work together closely.
• Assistive Technology: Learning to use equipment like wheelchairs, braces, or adaptive tools for communication and daily tasks.
• Vocational Rehabilitation: Supporting individuals in returning to work or exploring new employment or educational opportunities.
• Psychological Support: Helping individuals and families cope with the emotional and mental health aspects of SCI.

The goal of physical and occupational therapy and the broader rehabilitation process is to maximise independence, achieve the best possible functional recovery, and enhance quality of life. While SCI often involves temporary or permanent changes, rehabilitation empowers individuals to manage their condition and participate fully in life.

Research continues into areas like stem cells and nerve regeneration, offering hope for future advancements, but the current focus remains on maximising function and managing complications. Life expectancy after SCI has improved significantly due to better medical care and management of secondary conditions.

How to get involved in Spinal Cord Injury Awareness Day?

There are many ways you can show your support and help raise awareness on Spinal Cord Injury Awareness Day (May 15th) and beyond:

• Educate Yourself and Others: Share information about spinal cord injuries and their impact using reliable sources. Correct misconceptions when you hear them.
• Share Stories: If you or a loved one are affected by SCI, consider sharing your experience (if comfortable) to help others understand the reality. The official charities often collect and share personal stories.
• Use Social Media: Post messages of support using the official hashtags for SCIAD (check the charities' websites for the current year's tag). Share articles and resources.
• Support the Charities: Organisations like the Spinal Injuries Association (SIA), Back Up, and Aspire provide invaluable support, research funding, and advocacy. Consider donating or fundraising.
• Wear Awareness Colours: Check if there's an official colour for the campaign year and incorporate it into your clothing or profile picture.
• Engage with Events: Look out for local or online events, webinars, or campaigns organised for the day.
• Be an Ally: Offer practical support and understanding to friends, family, or community members living with SCI. Ask how you can help, listen without judgment, and promote inclusivity.

How does Tiggo Care support people with spinal cord injuries?

At Tiggo Care, we understand the unique challenges faced by people living with spinal cord injuries and their families. While we don't provide medical treatment or specialist therapies ourselves, our dedicated carers offer a person-centred care approach to help you or your loved one live comfortably and independently at home. We focus on assisting you with your daily routines and helping you follow the guidance provided by your doctors and therapists.

Our aim is always to improve the quality of life and support your goals. Here’s how we can help:

• Personal Care: Providing sensitive assistance with washing, dressing, grooming, and continence care, always respecting dignity.
• Medication Assistance: Helping you stick to your medication schedule as prescribed by your GP or specialist (e.g., reminders, opening packaging).
• Domestic Tasks: Assisting with light housekeeping, laundry, and keeping your home environment safe and comfortable.
• Meal Preparation: Helping with planning and cooking nutritious meals, considering any dietary advice given by healthcare professionals.
• Supporting Therapy Routines: Assisting you to follow exercise programmes or routines set out by your physical and occupational therapists.
• Mobility Assistance: Helping with safe transfers and repositioning as advised by your therapy team, helping to prevent pressure ulcers.
• Appointments and Errands: Escorting you to medical appointments, therapy sessions, social events, or assisting with shopping and excursions.
• Companionship: Providing friendly interaction and reducing social isolation.

We work closely with you and your family, as well as your healthcare team, to create a bespoke care plan centred around your specific needs and preferences. Our care assistants are trained to provide compassionate, reliable support, enabling you to focus on living your life to the fullest potential.

Conclusion

Spinal Cord Injury Awareness Day is more than just a date on the calendar; it's a vital reminder of the strength within the SCI community and the importance of ongoing support and understanding. Recognising the daily realities, challenges, and triumphs of people living with injuries to the spinal cord helps foster a more informed and supportive society for everyone.

Tiggo Care is committed to providing high-quality, person-centred home care services. We assist people affected by spinal cord injury to manage their daily lives with dignity and maximise their independence at home. If you or a family member could benefit from compassionate support tailored to your specific needs, please reach out to learn more about how we at Tiggo Care can help.