I'm not quite understand how spinal cord injuries work. If you have a complete spinal cord injury @ T5, what does that mean in terms of what you can do? There is so much info on the cervical region of the spinal cord but I can't find much on the thoracic especially T5! Apparently, the person would be in a wheelchair but why is that?
A complete spinal cord injury at the T5 level means that the spinal cord is fully severed or damaged at the fifth thoracic vertebra, which is located in the upper back. The thoracic region of the spinal cord controls various functions, including sensory and motor functions of the trunk, chest, and abdominal muscles.
When someone sustains a complete spinal cord injury at the T5 level, it usually results in paraplegia, which is paralysis of the lower body and legs. This happens because the nerve impulses from the brain can no longer travel below the injury site, leading to loss of voluntary movement, sensation, and control of bodily functions in the lower limbs.
The reason why a person with a T5-level injury would typically use a wheelchair is that they are unable to walk due to the paralysis. The lack of motor control and sensation in the legs makes walking impossible without assistance. However, it's important to note that the specific impact on an individual's abilities can vary depending on factors such as the severity of the injury, overall health, and rehabilitation efforts.
To better understand spinal cord injuries and their effects on different levels, it can be helpful to consult medical resources such as textbooks, scientific journals, and reputable health websites. Additionally, reaching out to medical professionals or organizations specializing in spinal cord injury can provide more detailed and accurate information.