brain & spine injuries

What happens when brain or spinal cord tissues are damaged?

Results in a wide range of symptoms and functional impairments

What can brain injury affect depending on the location of damaged brain cells?

Speech, memory, movement, mental capacity, paralysis, or coma

What can spinal cord injury cause if severe?

Immediate paralysis

What happens in less severe spinal cord injuries?

Movement possible but with limited sensation

What are some causes of brain injuries?

Traumatic injuries (blow to head), stroke, infections, tumours, lack of oxygen

What are some causes of spinal cord injuries?

Traumatic injuries (falls, car accidents), tumours, infections, degenerative diseases

What is critical immediately after a traumatic brain or spinal injury?

Immediate medical attention to stabilise patient and prevent further damage

What are possible treatments for brain and spinal cord injuries?

Medication, surgery, rehabilitation therapy, assistive devices (braces, wheelchairs)

Why is spinal cord injury treatment challenging?

Nerve tissue in the CNS does not regenerate on its own

What experimental therapy is being investigated for spinal cord injuries?

Stem cell therapy