SCI Functional Outcomes — General

What is the general functional picture for high tetraplegia C1–C4?

• Highly dependent

• Requires extensive assistance

• Dependent for most ADLs

• Power wheelchair often required

• Can often verbally direct care

What is the general functional picture for C5 SCI?

• Elbow flexion present

• May assist with feeding/grooming using adaptive equipment

• Requires significant help with transfers

• Limited manual wheelchair function

• Greater independence than C1–C4

What is the general functional picture for C6 SCI?

• Wrist extension available

• Tenodesis grasp possible

• Greater ADL independence

• Sliding-board transfers may become possible

• Manual wheelchair propulsion on level surfaces may be possible

What is the general functional picture for C7–C8 SCI?

• Triceps available at C7

• Finger flexors improve at C8

• Greater transfer independence

• Better wheelchair management

• Greater independence with ADLs

What is the general functional picture for paraplegia?

• Upper extremities intact

• Bed mobility often independent

• Transfers often independent or modified independent

• Wheelchair mobility highly independent

• Some may ambulate with orthoses/assistive devices