A spinal cord injury (SCI) changes the way the body moves, feels and functions. It can affect not only mobility but also independence, mental health, mental wellbeing and quality of life. For people navigating life after a spinal cord injury, Physiotherapy plays a vital role in restoring function, managing complications and building long-term strength.

At Bloom Healthcare, our Physiotherapists work closely with individuals living with SCI to provide compassionate, evidence-based care tailored to each person’s needs. Physiotherapy supports both physical health and mental health throughout the recovery process, helping people reach their goals at every stage of recovery. We focus on progress, not perfection – and help people reach their goals at every stage of recovery.

Understanding Spinal Cord Injuries

The spinal cord serves as the primary communication pathway between the brain and the body. As a crucial part of the nervous system, it relies on nerve cells and nerve fibres to transmit motor and sensory signals throughout the body. When it’s damaged, whether through trauma, illness or a neurological condition, the messages between the brain and the rest of the body can be disrupted or lost entirely. Spinal cord damage can impair nerve fibres and nerve roots, leading to changes in body functions such as movement, sensation, and strength.

Spinal cord injuries are typically classified as:

• Complete: no motor or sensory function below the level of injury
• Incomplete: some degree of movement or sensation is preserved

The spinal column protects the spinal cord, and damage to the spinal column can result in damage to the spinal cord.

The level of injury (for example, cervical vs lumbar) determines which parts of the body are affected. The injury affects specific body functions below the site of the injury. Some people may experience loss of sensation in their legs, while others may have limited function in their arms, hands, or entire body.

No two spinal cord injuries are the same, and neither are the recovery pathways. This is where Physiotherapy becomes a cornerstone of individualised care.

Understanding Spinal Cord Injury Symptoms

Recognising the symptoms of a spinal cord injury is crucial for timely intervention and better outcomes. Because the spinal cord is responsible for transmitting nerve signals between the brain and the rest of the body, any damage can disrupt these vital communications. Symptoms of spinal cord injury can vary widely, depending on the site of the injury and whether it is complete or incomplete. Some individuals may experience numbness, tingling, or weakness in their limbs, while others may suffer a total loss of movement or sensation below the level of the injury. Additional symptoms can include severe pain or pressure in the neck or back, sudden loss of bladder or bowel control, and changes in reflexes. Being aware of these signs is essential, as prompt medical attention can help prevent further damage and support the best possible recovery. If you or someone you know experiences these symptoms after an accident or trauma, seeking immediate care is vital.

Emergency Response and Care

When a spinal cord injury is suspected, the proper emergency response can make a significant difference in the injured person’s long-term health and functional independence. The first priority is to call for emergency medical help and ensure the person remains completely still, as any movement could cause further damage to the spinal cord. Emergency responders are trained to immobilise the spine using specialised equipment, such as backboards and neck collars, before transporting the individual to the emergency room. Once in the emergency room, a team of medical professionals, including Physical and Occupational Therapists, will assess the injury, perform diagnostic tests, and begin treatment to stabilise the spine. Early involvement of Physical and Occupational Therapists is essential, as they help prevent complications and lay the groundwork for rehabilitation. The Australian Physiotherapy Association highlights the importance of early intervention and coordinated care in supporting recovery and maximising functional independence for people with spinal cord injuries.

What Does Physiotherapy for SCI Involve?

Physiotherapy for spinal cord injuries is much more than exercise. It includes a comprehensive plan to:

• Maintain and improve muscle strength
• Preserve joint flexibility and prevent contractures
• Promote circulation and reduce the risk of complications like pressure sores or blood clots
• Assist with transfers, mobility aids and posture
• Rebuild balance, coordination and movement patterns
• Manage spasticity and pain
• Support respiratory health in higher-level injuries, including strengthening chest muscles, addressing breathing problems, and managing blood pressure
• Help clients perform activities of daily living, such as proximal muscle movement

Physiotherapists also play a key role in teaching people how to use assistive devices effectively and safely. This may include wheelchairs, standing frames, splints or mobility aids, depending on the person’s goals.

Physiotherapists assess risk factors and the risk of developing various complications after spinal cord injury, including an increased risk of pressure sores. They help prevent pressure sores through education and individualised care.

At Bloom Healthcare, our approach is person-centred. We begin with a detailed assessment and build a plan that supports each client’s abilities, lifestyle and long-term vision for independence. Important factors, such as communication skills, are considered in developing individualised plans.

Early Intervention and Long-Term Recovery

Acute care and medical care are critical immediately after the initial injury to the spinal cord, as timely intervention can prevent secondary complications and improve outcomes. Clinical practice guidelines support the use of effective interventions during this phase to optimise recovery and minimise long-term disability.

In the early stages after injury, Physiotherapy focuses on preventing further complications and promoting neuroplasticity – the brain and spinal cord’s ability to reorganise and form new connections.

Over time, therapy goals may shift towards:

• Maximising remaining strength and function
• Developing new strategies for movement and daily tasks
• Promoting physical activity and fitness within a safe, adaptive framework
• Managing chronic pain or spasticity
• Supporting mental wellbeing through increased confidence and autonomy

Effective interventions provided in clinical practice can also improve life expectancy for people with spinal cord injuries by reducing the risk of developing secondary health issues and supporting long-term health.

Recovery from a spinal cord injury is often a marathon, not a sprint. Physiotherapists provide not just exercises, but partnership and encouragement over the long term.

Managing Complications

Spinal cord injuries can lead to a range of complications that require proactive management to protect health and independence. Common issues include pressure sores, urinary tract infections, and blood clots. Pressure sores, also known as pressure ulcers, can develop when skin is exposed to prolonged pressure. However, they can often be prevented by regularly relieving pressure, using assistive devices, and maintaining good nutrition and hydration. Urinary tract infections are another risk, especially when bladder control is affected, so proper hygiene and bladder management are essential. Blood clots can form due to reduced mobility, but wearing compression stockings, staying hydrated, and moving as much as possible can help lower the risk. Motor vehicle accidents remain a leading cause of spinal cord injuries, and wearing a seat belt is a simple but effective way to reduce the risk of injury. Non-traumatic spinal cord injuries, such as those caused by illness or infection, can also result in complications if not managed promptly. Working closely with a rehabilitation team, including physical and occupational therapists, ensures that complications are addressed early, supporting ongoing functional independence and quality of life.

Real-Life Examples of Physiotherapy in Action

At Bloom Healthcare, we’ve supported individuals with spinal cord injuries to:

• Regain enough trunk control to self-transfer from bed to wheelchair
• Improve upper limb strength for independent dressing and eating
• Use mobility aids confidently within the home and community
• Build stamina and reduce fatigue with graded exercise programs
• Manage spasticity with stretching, splinting and movement techniques
• Prevent secondary complications through proactive physical management
• Support older adults with non-traumatic SCI, such as those caused by degenerative disorders or vascular conditions, to maintain independence and quality of life.
• Provide targeted rehabilitation for sports-related injuries that result in spinal cord damage, focusing on prevention, recovery, and safe return to activity.

Physiotherapy programs are designed to address a wide range of complications, including autonomic dysreflexia and sexual function, ensuring that individuals receive specialised care for these critical aspects of health.

These outcomes don’t just improve movement – they enhance quality of life, emotional wellbeing and participation in daily activities.

How Physiotherapy and Occupational Therapy Work Within a Multidisciplinary Team

Spinal cord injury support requires the collaboration of multiple professions. At Bloom Healthcare, Physiotherapists collaborate with:

• Occupational Therapists, who help with home modifications, equipment prescription and daily living skills
• Exercise Physiologists, who build ongoing fitness programs tailored to long-term capacity
• Speech Pathologists, where injuries impact breathing or swallowing
• Psychologists and Counsellors, who assist with adjustment, grief, trauma and resilience

This team-based approach ensures that physical, emotional and functional needs are all addressed in an integrated way.

NDIS and Physiotherapy for Spinal Cord Injury

The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) provides funding for Physiotherapy that helps a person build their capacity, manage their health, or reduce the impact of their disability, and also funds other supports such as Psychology.

Physiotherapy may be funded under:

• Capacity Building – Improved Daily Living
• Core Supports – Assistance with Daily Life, if therapy is provided in the home
• Consumables, for therapy-related equipment or supports
• Assistive Technology, for mobility aids, splints, or other prescribed devices

Bloom Healthcare is a registered NDIS provider. We assist participants with accessing appropriate Physiotherapy funding, conducting functional assessments, preparing reports for plan reviews and delivering therapy that aligns with participant goals.

Home-Based and Community Physiotherapy Services

Mobility challenges can make it hard for people with SCI to attend clinic appointments. That’s why Bloom offers flexible, home-based Physiotherapy. This allows our therapists to:

• Assess and work within the person’s real-life environment
• Help set up safe movement and exercise spaces
• Provide functional training using the client’s actual equipment
• Support transfers, wheelchair use, and independent living skills in context

We also offer telehealth options for ongoing support when appropriate, particularly for people in rural or remote areas.

Advances in Spinal Cord Injury Treatment

Recent years have seen remarkable progress in the treatment of spinal cord injuries, offering new hope for improved recovery and independence. Physiotherapy treatment, including both physical therapy and occupational therapy, remains at the heart of rehabilitation, helping individuals regain function and prevent complications. Exciting advances such as stem cell therapy and electrical stimulation are being explored to encourage nerve regeneration and restore motor function. Research published in the International Journal of Spinal Cord Injury and other leading sources highlights the effectiveness of these innovative approaches, as well as the importance of early intervention and comprehensive rehabilitation programs. Systematic reviews consistently demonstrate that initiating Physiotherapy and Occupational Therapy as soon as possible yields better outcomes.

Building a Life Beyond Injury

Spinal cord injury can feel like everything has changed. However, with the proper support, people can build a meaningful and active life beyond their injury.

Physiotherapy is not just about exercise programs – it’s about restoring hope, agency and function. At Bloom Healthcare, we are proud to walk alongside people as they rebuild their lives with strength and purpose.

Explore our services here: Physiotherapy at Bloom Healthcare