Overview of spinal cord disorders

[Britney]

Spinal cord disorders can cause permanent severe problems, such as paralysis or impaired bladder and bowel control (urinary incontinence and fecal incontinence). Sometimes these problems can be avoided or minimized if evaluation and treatment are done quickly.

Causes of spinal cord disorders include injuries, infections, a blocked blood supply, and compression by a fractured bone or a tumor.
Typically, muscles are weak or paralyzed, sensation is abnormal or lost, and controlling bladder and bowel function may be difficult.
Doctors base the diagnosis on symptoms and results of a physical examination and imaging tests, such as magnetic resonance imaging.
The condition causing the spinal cord disorder is corrected if possible.
Often, rehabilitation is needed to recover as much function as possible.