Spinal cord injury (SCI) is a life-changing condition that disrupts communication between the brain and the body, often resulting in significant impairments in movement, sensation and autonomic function. Depending on the level and severity of the injury, individuals may experience partial or complete loss of mobility, altered muscle tone, difficulties with posture and balance, respiratory limitations, chronic pain and reduced independence in daily life. Neurological physiotherapy is one of the most effective and essential approaches for managing the symptoms and prevent secondary complications associated with SCI.

Neurological physiotherapy focuses on optimising function, supporting recovery where possible, preventing deterioration and enabling individuals to maximise their independence. It addresses both the immediate consequences of the injury and the long-term challenges that arise as the nervous system adapts. For many people with SCI, ongoing physiotherapy becomes a cornerstone of rehabilitation and long-term wellbeing.

Understanding Spinal Cord Injury

The spinal cord is the main pathway for nerve signals travelling between the brain and the body. When it becomes damaged (through trauma, infection, tumours or medical conditions such as transverse myelitis), messages can no longer flow effectively. Injuries can be categorised as:

• Complete SCI: No motor or sensory function below the injury level
• Incomplete SCI: Some degree of both motor and sensory changes

The level of the injury determines which muscles and functions are impaired following the SCI and therefore each patient’s presentation is different due to this which relies on tailored neurological physiotherapy approach to meet those specific needs.

How Neurological Physiotherapy Helps People With Spinal Cord Injury

Neurological physiotherapy aims to support recovery, enhance function and reduce secondary complications. Recovery is often determined by the extent of the injury and that the nervous system retains some capacity for neuroplasticity, allowing it to reorganise and strengthen preserved neural pathways. Neurological physiotherapy plays a key role in stimulating these pathways to potentially help individuals learn new strategies for movement.

Below are the major ways neurological physiotherapy manages SCI related symptoms:

1. Improving and Maintaining Muscle Strength

2. Managing Spasticity and Muscle Tone

3. Preventing Secondary Complications

4. Improving Balance and Trunk Control

5. Enhancing Mobility and Gait (Where Possible)

6. Supporting Postural Alignment in various Seating Equipment (alongside our Occupational Therapy colleagues)

7. Respiratory Physiotherapy

8. Functional Training for Daily Living

9. Pain Management

Long-Term Benefits of Neurological Physiotherapy for SCI

While recovery varies widely, regular physiotherapy offers long-lasting benefits, including:

• Better physical health and fitness
• Reduced complications and hospitalisations
• Improved mobility and independence
• Enhanced confidence, wellbeing and mental health
• Preservation of remaining function
• Increased participation in work, hobbies and community life