Spinal Cord Injury Levels And Function Chart Occupational Therapy
Introduction
A spinal cord injury (SCI) is a severe injury to the spinal cord that can result in a loss of function or sensation. SCI can occur due to various reasons, such as accidents, falls, or medical conditions. The severity of the injury depends on the location of the damage on the spinal cord. Occupational therapy (OT) is an essential part of the rehabilitation process for individuals with SCI. In this article, we will discuss the spinal cord injury levels and function chart occupational therapy.
Spinal Cord Injury Levels
The spinal cord is divided into four regions: cervical, thoracic, lumbar, and sacral. Each region controls specific functions in the body. The level of SCI is determined by the location of the damage on the spinal cord. The higher the injury, the more severe the effects on the body.
Cervical SCI: This type of injury occurs in the neck region of the spinal cord. Individuals with cervical SCI may experience paralysis or weakness in all four limbs (quadriplegia). They may also have difficulty breathing, swallowing, and speaking.
Thoracic SCI: This type of injury occurs in the middle of the spinal cord. Individuals with thoracic SCI may experience paralysis or weakness in the legs (paraplegia). They may also have difficulty with bowel and bladder control.
Lumbar SCI: This type of injury occurs in the lower back region of the spinal cord. Individuals with lumbar SCI may experience paralysis or weakness in the legs. They may also have difficulty with bowel and bladder control.
Sacral SCI: This type of injury occurs in the tailbone region of the spinal cord. Individuals with sacral SCI may experience difficulty with bowel and bladder control.
Function Chart Occupational Therapy
OT is an essential part of the rehabilitation process for individuals with SCI. The goal of OT is to help individuals with SCI regain their independence in daily activities. The function chart occupational therapy is a tool used by OTs to assess the level of function of individuals with SCI.
The function chart evaluates the individual's ability to perform activities of daily living (ADLs), such as dressing, bathing, and toileting. The chart also assesses the individual's ability to perform instrumental activities of daily living (IADLs), such as cooking, cleaning, and managing finances.
The function chart is divided into three levels:
Level 1: Individuals at this level have limited or no movement below the level of injury. They require assistance for all ADLs and IADLs.
Level 2: Individuals at this level have some movement below the level of injury. They may be able to perform some ADLs and IADLs with assistance.
Level 3: Individuals at this level have near-normal function below the level of injury. They may be able to perform most ADLs and IADLs independently.
Conclusion
SCI is a severe injury that can have a significant impact on an individual's life. However, with proper rehabilitation, individuals with SCI can regain their independence and improve their quality of life. OT plays a crucial role in the rehabilitation process for individuals with SCI. The function chart occupational therapy is a tool used by OTs to assess the level of function of individuals with SCI and develop a customized treatment plan to help them achieve their goals.