Ongoing treatment for spinal cord injury aims to help the person live as full and independent a life as possible. Most people with spinal cord injury go through a programme of physiotherapy and rehabilitation. A variety of products can also improve quality of life by helping the person effectively manage complications such as loss of bladder, bowel or sexual function.
Bladder problems
Damage to the nerves that control the bladder may result in a condition known as “neurogenic bladder”. A neurogenic bladder can be either overactive (leading to incontinence) or unable to empty completely (leading to urinary retention). Products that can help to manage bladder problems include:
- urisheaths (for men)
- catheters
- pads
- diapers
Read more about bladder problems and product solutions.
Bowel problems
Damage to the nerves that control the bowel may result in a condition known as neurogenic bowel. Neurogenic bowel can lead to constipation, incontinence, or a combination of the two.
Re-establishing predictable bowel habits can often be achieved by following a bowel management programme. This is an important step towards helping people with bowel problems resume their work and social activities.
Pressure sores
Loss of mobility due to spinal cord injury can lead to the development of pressure sores (also known as pressure ulcers or bed sores) . This is because sitting or lying in the same position for a long time can cut off the flow of blood, which stops oxygen and nutrients from reaching and maintaining healthy tissue.
The risk of pressure sores can be reduced by keeping the skin clean and dry and changing position at least every two hours. If pressure sores become severe, specialist wound care may be required.
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