Understanding spinal cord injury
Paraplegia and tetraplegia - basics
Paraplegia and tetraplegia are paralysis caused by neuronal injuries or diseases - either in the brain or due to a spinal cord injury. The main difference lies in the parts of the body affected:
Symptoms of paraplegia
Paraplegia
The trunk and legs below the hip or shoulder are affected.
Quadriplegia
All four extremities as well as the trunk and neck are affected (also known as quadriplegia).
Spasticity and muscle stiffness
Increased muscle tension can lead to stiffness, limited mobility and pain.
Limited fine motor skills
Difficulties in the targeted use of the hands, e.g. when gripping, eating or writing.
Causes of paraplegia
There are an unthinkable number of possible primary causes of spinal cord injury. Anything that can destroy tissue is also capable of destroying the spinal cord. For example, the spinal cord can be crushed, punctured, cut, torn, twisted, infected and even irradiated or digest itself in an autoimmune attack.
One of the most common causes is a Fall for example, from a ladder, a horse or while skiing. In combination with an unfortunate impact angle, this can result in a mechanical injury to the spinal cord with serious consequences.
NEW TREATMENT OPTIONS WITH GIGER MD® THERAPY
GIGER MD® therapy is an effective way of counteracting all the complications listed above in the context of para- or tetraplegia. With its help, it has been proven that Significantly improves the sensorimotor skills of those affected and consequential damage can be prevented.
This also means that some paralyzed patients regain or significantly improve their ability to walk. GIGER MD® therapy also offers new hope in severe cases. Its effectiveness has been proven in numerous medical studies occupied.
The therapy is based on the GIGER MD® medical device: the patient lies on their back while their arms, legs and torso are trained in guided, coordinated movements. The horizontal position relieves the spine of its own weight and relaxes it immediately. The angled position of the legs ensures a straight back posture without overloading. Thanks to the specially developed kinematics, the patient can train their whole body without straining themselves - the harmonious, guided movements stimulate the central nervous system in a targeted and physiological way.
An injured central nervous system can partially reorganize itself through regular, coordinated training. Lost connections between the brain and muscles are gradually replaced by new neuronal networks - a process that scientists refer to as neuronal plasticity and which forms the basis of any successful treatment for spinal cord injury.
For patients who would like to benefit even more from the therapy, the GIGER MD® Booster Impulse available. It also enables wheelchair-dependent patients to train their cardiovascular system while standing for the first time, improve blood circulation, build up muscles and prevent osteoporosis, pressure sores and joint stiffness. Using a modified belt system, patients can practise and repeat complex gait patterns under optimal conditions.
The therapy has a holistic effect: it not only improves motor functions, but also vegetative bodily functions such as bladder and bowel control, respiratory function and blood circulation. At the same time, mood, mental well-being and the feeling of independence are demonstrably promoted - a decisive factor for the long-term quality of life of people with paraplegia or tetraplegia.
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Frequently asked questions:
Can paraplegia be cured?
Spinal cord injury cannot be completely cured, but therapies such as GIGER® MD® Therapy can significantly improve motor function, autonomic functions, skin conditions and quality of life.
What are the causes of spinal cord injury?
Paraplegia is caused by injuries or diseases of the spinal cord - for example due to falls, accidents, tumors or inflammatory diseases.
Does spinal cord injury worsen over the course of a person's life?
The spinal cord injury itself does not progress, but consequential damage can change or worsen without therapy.
What symptoms can occur with spinal cord injury?
The symptoms range from paralysis of the legs to paralysis of all four extremities, spasticity, pain, bladder and bowel disorders and circulatory problems.
How does spinal cord injury affect everyday life?
Regular therapies help to maintain mobility, reduce pain and promote independence. The aim is to develop individual abilities in the best possible way.