Spinal Cord Injury 101: What Every Woman Needs to Know

A spinal cord injury (SCI)can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re trying to understand what it means for your body, your health, and your future. Whether you’ve recently experienced an SCI or you’re looking for reliable information, this guide will break it down in a way that’s clear, supportive and focused on the unique experiences of women with spinal cord injuries.

At HerSpine Solutions, we believe knowledge is power. The more you understand about your body and how SCI affects it, the better equipped you’ll be to take charge of your health, adapt to new challenges, and embrace life with confidence.

What is a Spinal Cord Injury?

The spinal cord is a vital part of your central nervous system, carrying messages between your brain and body. When it’s injured, communication between the brain and areas below the injury may be disrupted or completely lost, affecting movement, sensation, and body functions like bladder and bowel control.

An SCI can be complete or incomplete:

  • Complete Injury – No movement or sensation below the level of injury.
  • Incomplete Injury – Some movement or feeling remains below the injury site.

The effects of an SCI depend on where along the spine the damage occurs.

Understanding Spinal Cord Injury Levels

Different parts of the spinal cord control different functions in the body. The location of your injury will determine which muscles and movements are affected. The information provided here serves as a general guide to spinal cord injury levels and their effects. However, the extent of movement and sensation loss varies between individuals based on factors such as injury severity, rehabilitation, and nerve regeneration. Always consult a medical professional for personalised advice on your specific condition.

Cervical Vertebrae (Neck – C1 to C8)

Injuries at this level affect the arms, hands, and sometimes breathing.

  • C8 – Finger flexion improves hand function, allowing for better grip and dexterity.
  • C1-C3 – Limited head control; ventilator often required for breathing.
  • C4 – Can breathe independently but may need assistance; shoulder shrugs are possible.
  • C5 – Can lift arms using shoulder muscles and bend the elbow.
  • C6 – Wrist extension possible; may assist with grip using tenodesis (passive grasp using wrist movement).
  • C7 – Can extend elbows, improving arm function and independence.

Thoracic Vertebrae (Upper Back – T1 to T12)

Controls deep breathing and upper body stability.

T6-L1 – Deep exhalation and core stability while sitting.

T1 – Full use of hands and fingers.

T2-T12 – Improved deep breathing ability and increased sitting balance.

Lumbar Vertebrae (Lower Back – L1 to L5)

Affects leg movement and mobility.

L4-L5 – Ankle extension, big toe movement, potential for assisted walking.

L1-L2 – Hip flexion possible.

L3-L4 – Knee extension, some ability to stand with aids.

Sacral Vertebrae (Base of Spine – S1 to S4)

Controls bladder, bowel, and some leg movements.

S2-S4 – Major role in bladder and bowel function.

S1 – Movement of the foot and ankle.

S1-S2 – Toe movement and further foot function.

Common Terms in Spinal Cord Injury

Like all medical conditions, SCI comes with its own terminology. Here are some key phrases you may hear:

  • SCI (Spinal Cord Injury) – The medical term for damage to the spinal cord, affecting movement and sensation.
  • Paralysis – Loss of movement and/or feeling in parts of the body.
  • Tetraplegia (Quadriplegia) – Paralysis affecting all four limbs and most internal organs.
  • Paraplegia – Paralysis affecting the legs and sometimes internal organs, but not the arms.
  • Traumatic vs. Non-Traumatic SCI – Differentiates between SCI caused by accidents (traumatic) and those caused by illness or medical conditions (non-traumatic).
  • Rehabilitation (Rehab) – A structured programme to help SCI individuals regain independence and adapt to their new lifestyle.
  • Autonomic Dysreflexia (AD) – A serious medical condition affecting individuals with injuries at T6 or above, causing dangerous spikes in blood pressure.
  • Intermittent Catheterisation (ICP) – A method for bladder management using a catheter at scheduled times.
  • UTI (Urinary Tract Infection) – A common issue for individuals with SCI due to bladder dysfunction.

How SCI Affects Women Differently

1. Menstrual and Reproductive Health

  • Your period may stop temporarily after an SCI but will likely return within 3 to 12 months.
  • Changes in sensation can make it harder to notice when your period has started.
  • Women with SCI can still get pregnant, but pregnancy care should be tailored to your needs.

2. Bladder and Bowel Management

  • Many women experience constipation or irregular bowel movements, which can fluctuate during menstruation.
  • SCI affects bladder control, increasing the risk of UTIs and requiring catheter use.

3. Mental Health and Self-Confidence

  • Many women worry about dating and relationships with SCI, but self-love and confidence play a key role in navigating intimacy and social connections.te confidence, independence, and advocacy among women with SCI.
  • Adjusting to life with an SCI can impact mental well-being, body image, and relationships.

4. Fitness and Independence

  • Finding adaptive exercise routines can help improve mental health support, circulation, and mobility.
  • Accessible fitness with SCI is essential for maintaining muscle strength and bone health.

Life After a Spinal Cord Injury

SCI changes the way you navigate the world, but it doesn’t take away your ability to live a bold, fulfilling life. Here’s what that journey can look like:

  • Adaptive Living: Small changes in your home and daily routine can restore independence and confidence.
  • Employment Opportunities: Women with SCI can and do work successfully in various careers with the right support.
  • Relationships & Sexuality: Love, intimacy, and dating are still very much part of life after SCI.

At HerSpine Solutions, we believe every woman deserves to feel strong, supported, and empowered.

How HerSpine Solutions Supports Women with SCI

HerSpine Solutions brings together a comprehensive network of resources and services designed to support every aspect of life for women living with SCI.

HerSpine

Communities

A safe space to connect with other women with SCI.

HerSpine

Stories

Real-life experiences of women navigating life after injury.

HerSpine

Academy

Expert-led courses on health after spinal cord injury, relationships, employment, and adaptive living.

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Services

A comprehensive directory of specialists and resources designed specifically for women with spinal cord injuries support.

You Are Not Alone

A spinal cord injury doesn’t define you — it’s simply part of your story. With the right support, resources, and community, you can embrace disability empowerment and live a fulfilling life on your own terms.

At HerSpine Solutions, we see you. We support you. And together, we are changing the narrative for women with SCI.

Want to learn more? Join HerSpine Communities today and connect with a sisterhood that understands.