Spinal Cord Injury Levels and Rehabilitation Potential

Often fatal injury. Movement in neck and above, loss of innervation to diaphragm, absence of independent respiratory function.

C1-3

Sensation and movement in neck and above. May be able to breathe without a ventilator.

C4

Full neck, partial shoulder, back, biceps. Gross elbow, inability to roll over or use hands.

C5

Decreased respiratory reserve

C5-6

Shoulder and upper back abduction and rotation at shoulder, full biceps to elbow flexion, wrist extension, weak grasp of thumb

C6

All triceps to elbow extension, finger extensors and flexors, good grasp with some decreased strength

C7-8

Full innervation of upper extremities. Back, essential intrinsic muscles of hand; full strength and dexterity of grasp. Decreased trunk stability

T1-6

Full independence in self-care and in wheelchair. Ability to drive car with hand controls (in most patients). Independent standing in standing frame.

T1-6

Full, stable thoracic muscles and upper back. Functional intercostals, resulting in increased respiratory reserve.

T6-12

Full independent use of wheelchair. Ability to stand erect with full leg brace, ambulate on crutches with swing (although gait difficult). Inability to climb stairs.

T6-12

Varying control of legs and pelvis, instability of lower back.

L1-2

Good sitting balance. Full use of wheelchair. Ambulation with long leg braces.

L1-2

Quadriceps and hip flexors, absence of hamstring function, flail ankles.

L3-4

Completely independent ambulation with short leg braces and canes. Inability to stand for long periods.

L3-4

Attendant care 24 hr/day, able to instruct others.

C1-4