Spinal Cord Injuries

Spinal cord injuries are a significant cause of disability, and are some of the most complex and challenging of all physical injuries. Often the result of a traumatic event or accident, such as car accidents, falls and catastrophic sporting injuries.
But in addition to these traumatic causes, a spinal cord injury may be caused by issues such as arthritis, cancer, inflammation, infections or degeneration of the spine. Regardless of the circumstances of the injury, recovery and redefining quality of life can be incredibly difficult for both the client and surrounding friends, family and support networks.
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What is a spinal cord injury and what is the impact?

According to SpinalCure Australia, “The spinal cord consists of a complex extension of the central nervous system running from the brain to the base of the spine. It acts as a telecommunications system between the brain and the body and independently controls some tasks.

“A damaged or severed spinal cord means the use of limbs below the level of injury is impossible. Damage to the spinal cord at the thoracic or lumbar region (the back) results in “paraplegia” where the client has full use of arms and hands but control of the lower limbs is affected. Damage in the cervical region (a broken neck) results in “quadriplegia” where the person loses control of their arms and hands as well as their legs.

A damaged spinal cord not only means losing control of your muscles, but also deprives you of the sensations of pleasure, touch and pressure, the control of bladder and bowel, and sometimes the ability to breathe unaided. Perversely, those paralysed often suffer constant burning, neuropathic pain in some areas of the body where they otherwise have little or no feeling.”

Who is most at risk of a spinal cord injury?

A spinal cord injury can happen to anyone at any time and the impact reaches far beyond not being able to walk. As well as lack of movement, it means a loss of control, mental and physical wellbeing, independence and freedom.
It is estimated there are around 20,000 people who live with a spinal cord injury in Australia. The age group most at risk is 15-24 year olds, and predominantly men (80%).
Knowing what to expect with spinal cord injuries can help you manage challenges along the way, successfully advocate for your loved one and the care they need, while also preventing caregiving responsibilities from becoming a source of chronic distress.

What support does Care1 offer for people with spinal cord injuries?

Care1 offers specially trained and highly empathetic care workers to support you and your loved one as they recover and learn to live with their spinal cord injury.
Our highly skilled and qualified staff provide spinal cord injury services that include, but are not limited to:
  • Rehabilitation
  • Occupational therapy
  • Personal or attendant care
  • Respite care for primary caregivers
  • Transport to specialist care appointments
If you don’t see your area of need here, or want to find out more about what we can offer, please contact us. Together we can tailor a solution to meet your unique requirements.
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In the spirit of reconciliation, Care1 Disability Services Sydney acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of the country throughout Australia and their connections to land, sea and community. We pay our respect to their Elders, past and present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples today.

The Care1 Disability Services Sydney Team

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Care1 is a leading provider of highly trained and professional disability services care staff and nurses, as well as aged care staff to private clients throughout Sydney, NSW, Brisbane, Queensland and Canberra, ACT.