What is SCI?

The spinal cord is an extension of the central nervous system, acting as the connection between the brain and the rest of the body. The spinal cord is enclosed in and protected by the vertebrae that make up the spinal column.

SCI can be the result of either damage or disease to the spinal cord and the results can range from loss of feeling in parts of the body through to full body paralysis.

Damage to the cervical region of the spinal cord (the neck) can result in loss of both feeling and movement in the upper body, arms and hands: This is described as Tetraplegia.

Damage to the sacral, lumbar or thoracic region of the spinal column often results in the loss of feeling and movement in the lower limbs and parts of the body: This is described as Paraplegia.

It is estimated there are 40,000 Spinal Cord Injured people in the UK alone.