MEDICAL GLOSSARY OF TERMS
After an SCI, doctors and therapists will use many new terms. Understanding these keywords will help you communicate and make decisions with the medical team. Below, we explain important medical terms, tests, procedures, and rehab concepts in plain language.
Autonomic Nervous System The part of the nervous system that controls automatic functions like blood pressure, heart rate, and sweating. After SCI (especially above T6), autonomic dysfunction can occur (as in autonomic dysreflexia or trouble regulating blood pressure and temperature). The term might come up when discussing issues like maintaining blood pressure or bowel/bladder function. Syrinx and Syringomyelia A syrinx is a fluid-filled cavity that can develop within the spinal cord, a condition known as syringomyelia. This occurs when cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) accumulates abnormally, often as a result of spinal cord injury, trauma, or conditions such as Chiari malformation. Over time, the syrinx can expand, putting pressure on the spinal cord and leading to symptoms such as pain, weakness, loss of sensation, and even worsening neurological function. Treatment options depend on the severity of symptoms and may include monitoring, surgical intervention to drain the syrinx, or procedures to restore normal CSF flow. Early detection and management are crucial in preventing further complications.
Paralysis Loss of muscle function (and often loss of feeling) in part of the body. Paralysis can be partial or complete. In SCI, paralysis occurs below the level of the spinal cord damage. For example, someone with a spinal injury may be unable to move their legs (leg paralysis) and possibly their arms (if the injury is in the neck). Paralysis can also affect internal organs (bladder, bowel, etc., which is why those functions change after SCI). Quadriplegia / Tetraplegia These terms mean paralysis of all four limbs. “Tetraplegia” is often used in the UK (from tetra- meaning four), and “quadriplegia” in other places, but they refer to the same thing. It results from a cervical (neck) spinal cord injury, affecting the arms, trunk, and legs. A person with quadriplegia cannot voluntarily move their legs or arms (though in incomplete injuries they may have some arm movement). They will also have impaired hand function and need assistance with most daily activities. Higher cervical quadriplegia can impact breathing and coughing as well. Paraplegia This is paralysis of the lower half of the body (the legs and often part of the trunk). It happens with thoracic, lumbar, or sacral injuries. People with paraplegia have full use of their arms and hands, but cannot walk and will use a wheelchair. They usually have affected bladder/bowel control and altered sensation below the injury.
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