How to Cope with Activity Limitations After a Spinal Cord Injury?

A spinal cord injury (SCI) can be a life-altering event. The sudden loss of mobility and function can make your daily tasks incredibly hard to do, both physically and emotionally. Simple tasks that were once part of your routine may now seem challenging. But the good news is that you can still live an active and fulfilling life with the right support system, a positive outlook, and a few adjustments.

This blog will help you focus on overcoming the initial hurdles of a spinal cord injury (SCI). Let’s read more to get practical tips for staying active despite any limitations you may face, address common concerns, offer solutions, and more.

Limitation After Spinal Cord Injury

A spinal cord injury's effects vary depending on the damage's severity and area. Some individuals may experience complete paralysis (tetraplegia) affecting all four limbs and torso, while others may have partial paralysis (paraplegia) impacting the lower body.

Here are some common limitations you might encounter:

• Reduced Mobility: Depending on the level of injury, you may have difficulty walking, standing, or using your arms and hands.
• Muscle Weakness and Spasticity: Muscles below the injury site might become weak or experience involuntary muscle contractions (muscle spasms).
• Loss of Sensation: You might experience numbness or tingling in the affected areas.
• Bowel and Bladder Dysfunction: Difficulty controlling bladder and bowel movements is a frequent challenge.
• Pain: Chronic pain can be a significant issue.

These limitations are a natural part of living with SCI, but it's important to remember that they don't define your potential. With the help of assistive devices and a commitment to rehabilitation, you can find new ways to be active and cope effectively with these changes.

How to Cope Post Spinal Cord Injury

An active lifestyle doesn't just mean vigorous exercise. It's about implementing physical activity into your daily routine, regardless of physical abilities. Here are some ways to stay active after an SCI:

• Physical Therapy: Rehabilitation is essential in regaining strength, improving function, and preventing complications. Knowing your limitations, a physical therapist will create a personalised exercise program specifically designed for your needs and goals.
• Adaptive Sports: From wheelchair basketball and rugby to hand cycling and swimming, a world of adaptive sports is waiting for you. These activities offer a fantastic way to stay active, have fun, and connect with others facing your challenges.
• Strength Training: Building muscle strength and endurance can significantly improve overall well-being. Adapted strength training programs, using weights, resistance bands, or your body weight, may help maintain muscle mass and improve daily activities, even with limitations.
• Cardiovascular Exercise: Regular cardio workouts are essential for maintaining heart health, managing weight, and boosting energy levels. Activities like hand cycling, rowing, or pool exercises can keep your heart pumping while working around any limitations.
• Daily Movement: Even small changes in your routine can make a big difference. Put continuous effort to incorporate movement throughout the day. Park away and walk, do some stretches while watching TV, or participate in household chores involving physical activity.

Remember, consistency is the key. Target for at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise every day of the week. Listen to your body, start slowly, and slightly increase the intensity and duration of your workouts as you get stronger.

Beyond Physical Activity

You may go through an emotional roller coaster from sadness, denial, anger, bargaining, and eventually accepting that you will need help. So, have patience and give yourself and your injury time. Do not rush. Keep in mind that all spinal injuries are not similar. Don’t compare your condition with others.

An engaging life encompasses more than just physical well-being. These are some additional tips to stay connected and motivated:

• Social Interaction: Social isolation can be a genuine concern after an SCI. Keeping yourself connected with friends and family, joining support groups, or volunteering for causes you care about can help combat loneliness and keep you feeling positive.
• Mental Wellness: Coping with the emotional challenges of an SCI is crucial. Talk therapy, mindfulness exercises, and relaxation techniques can help manage stress, anxiety, and depression.
• Learning New Skills: Challenge yourself by learning new skills that don't require extensive physical mobility. Explore creative outlets like painting, writing, or photography. You could also learn a new language, take an online course, or master a new tech skill.

The Power of a Positive Attitude

Adapting to a new normal after a spinal cord injury can be daunting. Moreover, maintaining a positive outlook and focusing on what you can achieve can make a difference.

• Look Forward: You must live a life for yourself and your family.
• Believe in Yourself: Belief in yourself is the ultimate path to a satisfactory life.
• Set Realistic Goals: Break down long-term goals into smaller, achievable steps. Celebrate your progress.
• Focus on Your Strengths: Don't dwell on what you've lost – focus on your abilities and talents.
• Own Your Daily Life: Use adaptive technologies and assistive devices for day-to-day needs.

Ready to Redefine Active? Start Your Journey at Shankar Hospital!

Ready to redefine what "active" means for you? Take the first step towards reclaiming your potential with Shankar Hospital. Our team is dedicated to providing practical guidance, personalised strategies, and compassionate support for managing limitations and maintaining an active lifestyle after a spinal cord injury. Schedule your consultation today and start your journey to well-being.