What happens with cervical spinal cord injury? (Part 2)

This is Part 2 of a question addressed last month: What happens with cervical spinal cord injury? If you missed Part 1, click below for an explanation of high and low cervical injury levels of the spinal cord.

Thoracic Nerves (T1-T5)

  • Corresponding nerves affect muscles, upper chest, mid-back and abdominal muscles

  • Arm and hand function is usually normal

  • Injuries usually affect the trunk and legs (paraplegia)

  • Most likely use a manual wheelchair

  • Could learn to drive with a modified car

  • Could stand in a standing frame, while others may walk with braces

Thoracic Nerves (T1-T5)

  • Nerves affect muscles of the abdominal and back muscles, depending on the level of injury

  • Usually results in paraplegia

  • Normal upper-body movement

  • Fair-to-good ability to control and balance the trunk when in the seated position

  • Should be able to cough, if abdominal muscles are intact

  • Little or no voluntary control of bowel or bladder

  • Most likely use a manual wheelchair

  • Could learn to drive a modified car

  • Some may be able to stand in a standing frame and others may walk with limb braces

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