Spinal Cord Injury (SCI)
About Spinal Cord Injury
Spinal Cord Injury (SCI) is trauma or damage that results in temporary or permanent changes in the spinal cord’s normal motor, sensory, or autonomic function.
Frequent causes of SCI include motor vehicle crashes, falls, acts of violence (gunshot wounds), and sports and recreational activities.
The effects of SCI depend on the type of injury and the level of the injury.
SCI can be divided into two types of injury – complete and incomplete:
- A complete injury means that there is no sensation or voluntary movement below the level of the injury.
- An incomplete injury means that there is some functioning below the primary level of the injury. A person with an incomplete injury may be able to move one or more limbs or may be able to feel parts of the body that cannot be moved.
According to the Christopher & Dana Reeve Foundation, nearly 1 person in 50 is living with paralysis.
To connect with the national network of people living with paralysis, visit the Paralysis Resource Center at the Christopher & Dana Reeve Foundation.
SCI Awareness Month
SEPTEMBER IS NATIONAL SCI AWARENESS MONTH!
According to the National Spinal Cord Injury Statistical Center, more than 17,900 new spinal cord injuries take place every year. An SCI often represents a shocking, overwhelming, isolating, and traumatic event—not only for an individual but also for their family, friends, and community.
Every individual living with an SCI may experience unique physical, mental, and emotional impacts after injury. An SCI can result in multiple short-term, long-term, or lifelong medical concerns.
Please check out the Resource List, and articles listed below, or go to the websites listed above for additional information and support.
Spinal Cord Injury Information
Resource List: Adjustment to SCI
Resources and information on how to adjust to your new spinal cord injury.
Additional Resources
Listed below are online resources and information related to spinal cord injury and paralysis.
United Spinal Association
What is Spinal Cord Injury/Disorder?
Model Systems Knowledge Translation Center
Living With SCI Resources
Christopher & Dana Reeve Foundation
Paralysis Resource Center
Craig Hospital
SCI Resource Library
Move United
Adaptive Sports
Paralyzed Veterans of America
Homepage
Travis Roy Foundation
SCI Overview and Resources
New Mobility
Homepage
U.S Department of Veterans Affairs
SCI System of Care Information