Neurological
Spinal Cord Injury
Rebuild strength. Restore function. Reclaim independence.
What is Spinal Cord Injury?
A spinal cord injury (SCI) is damage to the spinal cord that disrupts the signals between the brain and the body. Depending on the level and completeness of the injury, it can affect movement, sensation, and bladder or bowel control. Skilled physiotherapy maximises remaining function, prevents complications and trains compensatory strategies.
A spinal cord injury changes life, but focused rehabilitation rebuilds strength, restores function and helps you regain as much independence as possible. We are with you at every step of the journey.
Signs & Symptoms
- Partial or complete loss of movement
- Altered or lost sensation below the injury
- Muscle weakness and spasticity
- Difficulty with balance and transfers
- Bladder and bowel changes
- Risk of pressure sores and joint stiffness
Our Approach
We focus on strengthening preserved muscles, retraining balance and transfers, managing spasticity, and preventing secondary complications such as pressure sores and contractures. Where appropriate, we use functional electrical stimulation, standing frames and gait training, alongside carer education for safe handling at home.
Build Strength
Maximise power in working muscles.
Restore Function
Improve transfers and daily tasks.
Manage Spasticity
Reduce stiffness and discomfort.
Holistic Support
Physical and emotional care together.
Your Treatment Journey
- 1
Detailed Assessment
Mapping strength, sensation and function to set realistic, motivating goals.
- 2
Complication Prevention
Positioning, range-of-motion and skin care to protect joints and prevent sores.
- 3
Strength & Transfers
Building power in working muscles and training safe, independent transfers.
- 4
Mobility Training
Wheelchair skills, standing and gait work matched to your level of injury.
- 5
Home & Community Integration
Equipment advice, home programme and carer training for daily life.
Recommended Exercises & Home Care
Simple activities that often support recovery between sessions — your therapist will tailor and progress these for you.
Upper-body strengthening
Resistance-band pulls and presses build the arm and shoulder power needed for transfers and wheelchair mobility.
Assisted range-of-motion
Gently moving each joint through its full range (by yourself or a carer) prevents stiffness and contractures.
Supported sitting balance
Practising trunk control while seated improves stability for daily tasks.
Pressure-relief lifts
Regularly shifting weight off the seat protects the skin from pressure sores.
Things to Be Aware Of
- Follow your medical team's activity level — never exceed cleared limits.
- Check skin daily and relieve pressure often to prevent sores.
- Have a carer trained in safe transfers and handling.
- Watch for signs of autonomic dysreflexia and seek help if they occur.
General guidance only — always follow the personalised plan from your physiotherapist before starting any exercise.
Frequently Asked Questions
Outcomes depend on the level and completeness of the injury. Even where full recovery isn't possible, rehabilitation greatly improves strength, function, independence and quality of life.