The symptoms of spinal cord trauma depend on where and how badly the spine is injured. Some signs appear immediately, while others worsen over time. Even less severe damage can lead to long-lasting health problems. Common symptoms among spinal cord injury patients in San Francisco include:
1. Partial or complete immobility
This refers to the inability to voluntarily move parts of the body. Weakness (paresis) may affect a limb or one side of the body, while full paralysis (plegia) can impact all limbs. Severe injuries often result in permanent mobility loss, requiring wheelchairs or full-time care. For many in San Francisco, this dramatically changes daily life.
2. Numbness, tingling, or altered sensation
Spinal cord damage interrupts how the brain receives sensory signals, potentially causing numbness, tingling, or odd sensations like burning or electric shocks. These deficits make it harder for San Francisco patients to recognize pain, pressure, or temperature changes, which increases the risk of secondary injuries.
3. Breathing problems
When the injury is high on the spine, particularly in the cervical or upper thoracic regions, it can compromise the diaphragm and respiratory muscles. This can lead to shallow breaths, poor lung function, and a higher chance of infections like pneumonia. Some San Francisco patients may need ventilators or respiratory therapy to support breathing.
4. Bladder and bowel dysfunction
SCI often affects the nerves responsible for bladder and bowel control. This can result in incontinence, retention, or irregularity. San Francisco residents living with these symptoms often rely on medical equipment like catheters or bowel programs, which can also affect emotional well-being and social engagement.
5. Muscle weakness or spasms
Depending on the injury’s nature, individuals may suffer from weak muscles, poor coordination, or involuntary spasms (spasticity). These issues can make it hard to stand, walk, or perform tasks. San Francisco physical therapy centers and medications may help, but the associated costs and lifestyle impacts are significant.
6. Chronic pain or abnormal nerve responses
Nerve-related pain—called neuropathic pain—is a common side effect of SCI. This pain may feel sharp, stabbing, or like electric shocks. It’s often resistant to typical pain meds and can significantly affect the quality of life for patients in San Francisco. Hypersensitivity or unusual reactions to touch or temperature may also develop.
7. Sexual dysfunction
Depending on the injury level and severity, spinal injuries can interfere with sexual function. Men in San Francisco may have erectile or ejaculatory issues, while women may face changes in arousal or sensation. These physical effects, along with emotional strain, can impact relationships and mental health.