Physical therapy plays a central role in the rehabilitation of people with spinal cord injuries by helping them regain as much movement, strength, and functional independence as possible. Because a spinal cord injury disrupts the communication between the brain and the body, individuals may experience changes in mobility, balance, muscle control, and overall physical function. Physical therapists address these challenges through targeted exercises, mobility training, and techniques designed to strengthen preserved muscle groups and prevent secondary complications. Therapy often includes practicing transfers, improving sitting balance, and working on standing or walking when appropriate, using assistive devices or specialized equipment as needed. Physical therapists also focus on maintaining joint flexibility, reducing muscle tightness, and preventing issues such as pressure injuries or contractures. Beyond direct physical gains, therapy helps individuals learn safe movement strategies and adapt to new ways of performing daily activities. This comprehensive approach supports long‑term health, promotes independence, and enhances overall quality of life for people recovering from or living with a spinal cord injury.
Speech therapy can play an important role in the rehabilitation of people with spinal cord injuries, particularly when the injury affects the areas of the nervous system involved in breathing, swallowing, or communication. Depending on the level of the injury, individuals may experience reduced breath support, changes in voice quality, or difficulty coordinating the muscles needed for safe swallowing. Speech‑language pathologists address these challenges by helping individuals strengthen respiratory control for speech, improve vocal clarity, and use techniques that support effective communication. They also evaluate and treat swallowing difficulties, which can occur when muscle control is affected or when medical interventions such as tracheostomy or ventilator use are involved. Therapy may include exercises to improve swallowing safety, strategies to reduce aspiration risk, and guidance on diet modifications when needed. In addition, speech therapists can assist with cognitive‑communication skills if the injury is accompanied by a traumatic brain injury or other cognitive changes. Through this combination of support, speech therapy helps individuals with spinal cord injuries communicate more effectively, maintain safe swallowing, and participate more fully in daily activities.
