Injury to the spinal cord not only affects an individual physically, but his overall abilities are also damages, leading to a poor quality of life. ‘Spinal Cord Injury Day’ is observed on 5th September annually, with the intention of increasing awareness amongst the general public. It is being presumed that spreading the awareness about Spinal cord injury would facilitate an inclusive life for persons with disability and giving them motivation to live their life to the fullest.
The spinal cord injury and its effects can be different to every sufferer and its effect depends on the cause, circumstances and how quickly the injury is being treated. It can be damaged through trauma such as a major accident or as a result of illness and infection. After the damage, the impact depends on where the spinal cord is injured, for instance if the injury is in the lower part of the spinal cord, it may affect use of the legs and control of the stomach, bladder and bowels. In order to motivate and encourage patients with spinal cord injury, this year’s theme is ‘Living life to the fullest’.
It is very hard to live with spinal cord injury, because a person will find difficulty to perform all his or her daily activities like ever before. Spinal cord injury affects functions, sometimes seriously, leading to loss of movement and control of bodily functions. Such injuries affecting their daily chores are disastrous for the patients and their families. In order to promote positive approach among the sufferers, motivating them to fight against all the odds is must. These life-altering injuries cause disruptive changes in every aspect of their live and there are a lot of advancements and new information to navigate and understand.” said Dr Anuj Malhotra, HOD and Senior Consultant, Joint replacement and Orthopaedic, Saroj Super Speciality Hospital, New Delhi.
The spine is one of the most important support system of our body. Being a complex cylinder of nerves that starts at the base of our brain and runs down the vertebral canal, allowing complete body functions. Injury to the spinal cord ranging from mild to severe, can affect a person’ life completely, causing major permanent changes in the body’s strength, sensation and ability.
“Now-a-days, less physical activities like running, walking and exercises are the major reason behind weak immune system and weaker spinal cord. Millions of people are being affected by back pain due to continuously working for long hours. Taking care of spine will help you to lower the chances of injuries later. Many of the steps can be taken to improve the overall health of your spine includes sleeping well at night, stretch to help your back and neck, exercises to stay physically fit, maintain a healthy weight and reduce a lot of stress on both the lower and upper back” Said Dr Satnam Singh Chhabra, Head Neuro and Spine department, Sir Gangaram Hospital, New Delhi.
