Functional Level Spinal Cord Injury Levels And Function Chart
A spinal cord injury (SCI) is a devastating event that can cause significant changes in an individual's life. Depending on the level of the injury, it can affect one's ability to move, feel, and function. The spine is divided into several levels, each with its own set of functions. Understanding these levels is crucial in determining the extent of the injury and developing a treatment plan.
Cervical Spinal Cord Injury
The cervical spinal cord is located in the neck region and is responsible for controlling the upper body's functions, including the arms, hands, and breathing. An injury to this area can result in tetraplegia, also known as quadriplegia, which is paralysis of all four limbs and the torso. The higher the injury, the greater the loss of function.
If the injury is at the C1-C3 level, the patient may require a ventilator to breathe, as these muscles are controlled by nerves in the upper cervical spinal cord. Injuries at the C4-C5 level may allow for some arm movement, but the patient may require assistance with daily activities. Injuries at the C6-C7 level may allow for some hand and wrist movement, but the patient may still require assistance with certain tasks.
Thoracic Spinal Cord Injury
The thoracic spinal cord is located in the upper back and is responsible for controlling the chest, abdomen, and some back muscles. Injuries to this area can result in paraplegia, which is paralysis of the lower body and legs.
If the injury is at the T1-T8 level, the patient may be able to control their upper body but require a wheelchair for mobility. Injuries at the T9-T12 level may allow for some hip and leg movement, but the patient may still require a wheelchair or other mobility aid.
Lumbar Spinal Cord Injury
The lumbar spinal cord is located in the lower back and is responsible for controlling the hips and legs. Injuries to this area can also result in paraplegia.
If the injury is at the L1-L2 level, the patient may be able to walk with braces or other assistive devices. Injuries at the L3-L4 level may allow for some knee and ankle movement, but the patient may still require assistive devices. Injuries at the L5-S1 level may allow for some foot and toe movement, but the patient may still require assistive devices for mobility.
Function Chart
The American Spinal Injury Association (ASIA) has developed a functional level classification system that provides a standardized way of describing the level of injury and its corresponding function. This classification system is used by healthcare professionals to determine the extent of the injury and develop a treatment plan.
The functional level chart ranges from A to E, with A being a complete injury resulting in no motor or sensory function below the level of injury, and E being a normal level of function. Patients with incomplete injuries may fall within the B, C, or D categories, depending on the extent of their function.
Conclusion
A spinal cord injury can have a significant impact on an individual's life, and understanding the level of the injury and its corresponding function is crucial in developing a treatment plan. The functional level chart developed by the ASIA provides a standardized way of describing the level of injury and can help guide healthcare professionals in determining the best course of treatment for their patients.