Spinal Cord Injury

What is a spinal cord injury?

A spinal cord injury occurs when damage to the spinal cord disrupts communication between the brain and the rest of the body. This can affect movement, sensation and function below the level of the injury.

Spinal cord injuries can range from partial to complete and may result in weakness, paralysis or reduced control of certain body functions.

With the right rehabilitation and support, many people can improve strength, independence and quality of life.

What causes a spinal cord injury?

Spinal cord injuries are usually caused by trauma, but can also result from medical conditions.

Common causes include:

Road traffic accidents
Falls
Sports injuries
Violence
Spinal tumours
Infections
Degenerative spinal conditions

The level and severity of the injury determine how much movement and sensation are affected.

What does spinal cord injury feel like?

Symptoms depend on the level of injury.

People may experience:

Weakness or paralysis
Reduced or absent sensation
Muscle stiffness or spasms
Loss of balance
Difficulty walking
Reduced coordination
Fatigue
Reduced independence with daily activities

Some people may also experience changes in bladder or bowel control. Recovery and adaptation look different for everyone.

How can physio help after a spinal cord injury?

Physiotherapy plays a key role in rehabilitation after spinal cord injury.

It works by:

Improving strength in available muscle groups
Supporting balance and posture
Reducing stiffness and managing spasticity
Practising transfers and mobility
Reducing falls risk
Maximising independence

Rehabilitation focuses on building function and adapting safely to changes.

What treatment will Village Physio do?

At Village Physio, we provide personalised, home-based rehabilitation tailored to your individual goals and injury level.

Treatment may include:

Strengthening exercises
Balance training
Gait retraining, where appropriate
Transfer practice – bed, chair, stairs
Stretching to reduce stiffness
Spasticity management strategies
Functional training for daily activities
Advice on mobility aids and equipment

All sessions are one-hour home visits, allowing practical rehabilitation in your own home environment.

What can I do to reduce my discomfort whilst I wait for an appointment?

Maintain gentle movement within safe limits
Change position regularly
Perform prescribed exercises if provided
Monitor skin integrity
Use mobility aids as advised
Avoid overexertion

If you experience sudden changes in strength, sensation or bladder function, seek urgent medical advice.

See our physiotherapy blog

A lady sat in her wheelchair at home, and opening a cupboard drawer whilst smiling.

How Physiotherapy Supports People with Physical Disabilities

Living with a physical disability can affect mobility, strength and independence. Whether caused by a neurological condition, injury or long-term health issue, physical limitations often impact daily activities such as walking, transferring, climbing stairs or getting outdoors. Physiotherapy focuses on improving movement, safety and confidence – regardless of diagnosis. At Village Physio, we provide home physiotherapy across Rotherham, Sheffield, Doncaster and Barnsley.

2 days ago2 min read

Woman being supported to walk by a healthcare professional.

Life After a Stroke with Physiotherapy

Life after a stroke can feel overwhelming. Everyday activities such as walking, getting dressed, or using your hands may suddenly become difficult. Many people also experience fatigue, poor balance, or a loss of confidence. The good news is that recovery is possible, and physiotherapy plays a key role in helping stroke survivors regain movement, independence, and quality of life. Home physiotherapy is especially helpful after a stroke.

Feb 233 min read