Alternative Names & Classifications:
Spinal Cord Trauma (CLINICAL)
Description
A spinal cord injury is catastrophic damage to the tight bundle of cells and nerves that sends and receives signals from the brain to and from the rest of the body. It is usually caused by sudden, traumatic blows to the spine that fracture or dislocate vertebrae, driving bone fragments into the cord tissue. Depending on the severity and location of the lesion, it can cause permanent, irreversible changes in strength, sensation, and autonomic functions.