SCI Quiz

Neurological Level of Injury

Determined by the lowest segment with motor strength of 3 out of 5 or greater, and intact sensation.

Functional Level

Refers to the lowest segment where muscle strength is graded 3+ out of 5 or greater, and sensation is intact.

ASIA Impairment Scale (AIS)

A scale used to classify the severity of spinal cord injuries.

AIS A (Complete Injury)

No sensory or motor function preserved in the lowest sacral segments S4-S5.

AIS B (Sensory Incomplete)

Sensation is present below the injury, but no motor control.

AIS C (Motor Incomplete)

Motor function preserved at the sacral segments, but less than half of key muscles have strength > 3.

AIS D (Motor Incomplete)

Motor function preserved below injury with more than half of key muscles having strength > 3.

AIS E (Normal function)

Normal sensation and motor control with no previous deficits.

Central Cord Syndrome

Injury causing greater weakness in the upper extremities than the lower extremities.

Brown-Sequard Syndrome

Damage to one-half of the spinal cord, resulting in ipsilateral motor loss and contralateral pain and temperature loss.

Anterior Cord Syndrome

Loss of motor, pain, and temperature sensation with preservation of proprioception and light touch.

Cauda Equina Syndrome

Lower motor neuron injury affecting nerve roots, often leading to bowel and bladder dysfunction.

Conus Medullaris Syndrome

Involves both the spinal cord and nerve roots, with mixed reflex presentations.

Autonomic Dysreflexia

A potentially life-threatening condition causing a sudden increase in blood pressure.

Orthostatic Hypotension

A sudden drop in blood pressure upon standing.

Pressure Ulcers

Skin injury caused by prolonged pressure, common in individuals with SCI.

Bowel and Bladder Function in SCI

Refers to loss of voluntary control often with reflexive voiding.

Temperature Regulation in SCI

Impaired ability to maintain body temperature, which may lead to hypothermia or heat stroke.

Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT)

Formation of a blood clot, commonly in lower extremities; movement helps prevent clots.

Heterotopic Ossification

Pathological bone formation in joints occurring in SCI patients.

Tenodesis Action

A method used to enhance hand function in patients with certain levels of SCI.

Ventilator support

Mechanical assistance for breathing, often required for patients with high tetraplegia.

Radial Wrist Extensors

Muscles that allow grip through tenodesis grasp in patients with C6-C7 tetraplegia.

Intrinsic Minus Hand

Hand condition seen in C8 tetraplegia characterized by impaired finger function.

Community Outings

Encouraged activities for individuals with SCI to facilitate integration and participation.