How can technology improve living with a spinal cord injury?
When it comes to catastrophic injuries, spinal cord injuries can completely alter your way of life. Often, spinal cord injuries can cause paralysis. Fortunately, researchers have introduced new treatments and technologies for spinal cord injuries.
Mayo Clinic explains how technology can improve your life if you have a spinal cord injury.
The long-term impact of spinal cord injuries
If you suffer a spinal cord injury, physicians cannot reverse it. Treatment does not focus on reversing the injury but on preventing more injuries and aiding you in becoming more independent or active. Initial treatment occurs at the hospital, usually in the ICU. Then, after a period of hospitalization, you may begin rehabilitation. This could occur in an in-patient facility or an out-patient facility.
The effects of technology on treatment
As medical technology continues to advance, medical devices become more apt at improving a patient’s ability to remain independent or to have mobility. Even modern wheelchairs have become more lightweight. Some modern wheelchairs can perform the following functions:
- Power Elevation: The ability to raise and lower the seat to reach higher objects or to better interact with others at different heights.
- Tilt and Recline: Functions that allow the chair to tilt backward or recline, providing pressure relief and improving comfort.
- Standing Function: Some wheelchairs can assist users in standing up, providing health benefits like improved circulation and bone density.
- Advanced Suspension Systems: Enhanced suspension for a smoother ride over rough terrain.
- All-Terrain Capability: Designed to navigate various terrains, including grass, gravel, and uneven surfaces.
- Power Assist: Motorized assistance that reduces the effort required to push the wheelchair, useful for manual wheelchairs.
- Joystick Control: Intuitive joystick controls for easier maneuverability, often customizable to the user’s needs.
- Bluetooth and App Integration: Connectivity with smartphones and tablets for remote control and adjustments.
- Memory Seating Positions: Programmable seating positions that allow users to quickly switch to their preferred seating arrangements.
- Pressure Relief Cushions: Cushions designed to reduce the risk of pressure sores and improve overall comfort.
- Automated Braking Systems: Safety features that automatically engage the brakes on slopes or when the user is stationary.
- Customizable Fit: Adjustable components to fit the user’s body perfectly, such as seat width, depth, and backrest height.
Electric wheelchairs can assist patients who may not be able to use manual chairs.
Other technologies include electronic aids that can control devices. For instance, you could turn your lights off and on through a switch or a voice-activated remote. Electrical stimulation devices can control arm or leg muscles to allow patients to reach for items, grip items or even to stand and walk. Technology such as robotic gait training can even help retrain a person to walk again.
