Spinal Cord Long-Term Care focused on sustained support, complication prevention, and enhancing independence and quality of life over time

Understand the journey of living with a spinal cord condition. Learn about prevention, daily management, and why Liv Hospital is a leader in spinal care.

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Long-Term Care

Can Spinal Cord Disorders Be Prevented?

Many spinal cord disorders, especially traumatic ones, are preventable. Safety consciousness is the best defense. For non traumatic disorders, maintaining a healthy lifestyle can reduce the risk of degeneration and vascular issues.

Prevention strategies:

  • Wear seatbelts in vehicles at all times
  • Never dive into water unless deep and clear
  • Use safety gear for sports and motorcycles
  • Maintain a healthy weight to reduce spine stress
  • Quit smoking to improve disc health
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When Should I See a Doctor?

Spinal Cord

You should see a doctor if you experience any neurological symptoms. Back pain is common, but pain accompanied by nerve signs is a red flag. Early intervention can prevent permanent paralysis in conditions like compression or infection.

Seek help immediately for:

  • Sudden weakness or numbness in a limb
  • Loss of bowel or bladder control
  • Severe neck or back pain after injury
  • Unexplained stumbling or coordination loss
  • Electric shock sensations down the spine
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Living With a Spinal Cord Injury

Neurogenic Bowel and Bladder Management

Living with a spinal cord injury requires adaptation and resilience. It affects every aspect of life, from mobility to personal care. However, with the right support and equipment, individuals can lead full and active lives.

Life adjustments:

  • Using wheelchairs or mobility aids
  • Modifying the home with ramps and lifts
  • Driving with hand controls
  • Participating in adaptive sports
  • Managing autonomic dysreflexia risk

Managing Bladder and Bowel Function

Neurogenic bladder and bowel are common after spinal cord damage. The brain loses control over these organs. Management is crucial to prevent accidents, infections, and kidney damage.

Management techniques:

  • Intermittent catheterization to empty bladder
  • Medications to relax the bladder muscle
  • Scheduled bowel programs
  • High fiber diet and fluids
  • Surgical options for urinary diversion

Preventing Pressure Sores

When sensation is lost, the skin is at risk. Pressure sores, or bedsores, occur when sitting or lying in one position too long cuts off blood flow. These can become serious infections that reach the bone.

Prevention involves:

  • Weight shifts every 15 to 30 minutes
  • Using specialized cushions and mattresses
  • Daily skin inspection with mirrors
  • Maintaining good nutrition for skin health
  • Keeping skin clean and dry

Mental Health Support

The psychological impact of a spinal disorder is profound. Depression and anxiety are common as patients adjust to changes in ability. Mental health is just as important as physical health in the long term.

Support avenues:

  • Psychological counseling and therapy
  • Support groups with peers
  • Medication for depression if needed
  • Family counseling to adjust to role changes
  • Vocational rehabilitation for purpose
Spinal Cord

Diet and Nutrition

Nutrition plays a vital role in long term care. A healthy weight is essential for transfers and mobility. Certain nutrients are needed to prevent skin breakdown and maintain bone density, which can drop after injury.

Nutritional focus:

  • High protein for tissue repair
  • Calcium and Vitamin D for bones
  • Fiber and fluids for bowel management
  • Calorie control to prevent weight gain
  • Avoiding processed foods that increase inflammation

The Role of Caregivers

Caregivers are the unsung heroes of spinal cord care. Whether family or professionals, they assist with the activities that the patient cannot do. Their support enables the patient to live in the community rather than a facility.

Caregiver duties:

  • Assisting with transfers and hygiene
  • Helping with bowel and bladder programs
  • Preparing meals and managing home
  • Providing emotional support
  • Advocating for the patient’s medical needs

Future Research and Regeneration

Science is advancing rapidly. Research is focused on neuroprotection and regeneration. While there is no cure yet for complete paralysis, trials are underway that offer hope for the future.

Research areas:

  • Stem cell transplantation to bridge gaps
  • Gene therapy to promote regrowth
  • Bioengineered scaffolds for nerve growth
  • Electrical stimulation to bypass breaks
  • Drug therapies to stop scar formation

Why Choose Liv Hospital?

Liv Hospital stands at the forefront of spinal care. We understand that the spinal cord is the body’s most critical connection. Our approach is multidisciplinary, bringing together top neurosurgeons, neurologists, and rehabilitation experts to treat the whole patient.

We utilize state of the art diagnostic imaging and robotic surgical systems for precision. Our rehabilitation center is equipped with the latest technology to maximize recovery. At Liv Hospital, we provide compassionate, world class care for international patients, ensuring safety and comfort on the road to recovery.

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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

How often should I see a doctor after discharge?

You should have a comprehensive annual exam with a spinal cord injury specialist to check your bladder (urodynamics), skin, and equipment needs for the rest of your life.

Yes, if a pressure sore becomes deep and infected, the infection can spread to the blood (sepsis) or bone (osteomyelitis), which can be fatal if not treated aggressively.

A bowel program is a scheduled routine, usually done once a day or every other day, using diet and medication to cause a bowel movement at a predictable time to prevent accidents.

Yes, fertility is usually unaffected in women; they can conceive and carry a baby, but they need a specialist to monitor for complications like autonomic dysreflexia during delivery.

Your shoulders are not designed to walk for you; years of pushing a wheelchair puts strain on the joints, leading to “wear and tear” arthritis and rotator cuff tears as you age.

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