We often get asked questions about spinal cord injury and what it means for an individual, as well as questions about the work of the Spinal Injuries Association.

Here are the answers to some of the most common queries:

What does SCI mean?

SCI stands for 'spinal cord injury'. Find out more in the SCI Information area. 

What's the difference between paraplegia and tetraplegia?

Paraplegia means that a person is paralysed from the chest or waist down. Tetraplegia involves the upper trunk and arms too.

Why do some people say 'quadriplegic' instead of 'tetraplegic'?

In the UK and Europe, it's more usual for tetraplegic (from the Greek 'tetra' meaning 'four') to be used, while in the States, the Latin word for four ('quad') is the norm. Both quadriplegic and tetraplegic mean the same thing; that a person is paralysed in all four limbs.

Can you recover from a spinal cord injury?

Those experiencing partial injury or damage to the spinal cord may recover some feeling or movement following the wearing off of the initial 'spinal shock'. However, there is currently no treatment that can repair a complete spinal lesion and so the effects are permanent.

How does SIA support people with spinal cord injury?

By offering support services which have been identified as necessary by spinal cord injured people themselves. These services include an SIA Peer Advice Service available at the Spinal Cord Injury Centres in England, Wales and Northern Ireland, a Freephone Advice Line, Workwise Employment Service, training in Self Advocacy (Your Voice), a wide range of publications, bi-monthly magazine forward, an online bulletin e-clips, and much more.

How can I get involved with SIA?

You can get involved in a number of ways:

• Join us. Membership is open to all, not just spinal cord injured people.
• Volunteers are always needed to help with fundraising.
• Join our staff. Our Job Vacancies section lists the posts currently available.
• Become a Trustee and put your skills to good use by helping formulate policy and direction for the organisation (all full Trustees must be spinal cord injured). 

Can I join online?

Yes!! Membership of SIA is just a click away. Visit the SIA Shop to become a member today.