Spinal Cord Injury (SCI)
A spinal cord injury is damage to any part of the spinal cord or nerves at the end of the spinal canal (cauda equina) and often causes permanent changes in strength, sensation and other body functions below the site of the injury.
At first, changes in the way the body functions can be overwhelming. However, speaking with the proper healthcare professions or a rehabilitation team will help develop tools to address the changes caused by the spinal cord injury, in addition to recommending equipment and resources to promote quality of life and independence.
Bladder Dysfunction in SCI
After an SCI, the kidneys will usually continue to filter and pass waste and fluids to the bladder.
However, the usual messages our bladder sends to the brain, letting us know its full and time to use the bathroom, may not make it because of the damaged nerves in the spinal cord. This can result in the:
- Inability to store urine (urinary incontinence). Having no control over when the bladder empties. Also known as reflex or spastic bladder.
- Inability to empty the bladder (urinary retention). The bladder is full, but doesn’t empty properly. The bladder eventually stretches as it continues to fill with urine, which can cause damage to the bladder and kidneys. This is known as a flaccid bladder.
Tests would be required to determine bladder functionality after SCI with a prescribing healthcare professional or specialist who would then make recommendations for bladder management options.
Bladder Management and Treatment Options
Having a bladder management routine is a great way to gain control of bladder function. The primary goal is to determine with a healthcare professional a safe an effective method for emptying urine from the bladder. Some options may include:
- Intermittent catheterization. Tips for maintaining a self‐catheterization routine.
- Stimulated voiding.
- Surgery.
It is also important to follow a bladder management routine as it can help prevent additional complications of the lower urinary tract. Complications may include reoccurring urinary tract infections, kidney infections or bladder stones, or a life‐threatening rise in blood pressure called autonomic dysreflexia or AD. Bladder issues are the most common trigger for AD and account for to 85% of cases.
Always speak with a healthcare provider to select the optimal approach after a careful assessment of bladder symptoms.
You’re not alone
Maintaining a positive outlook is also extremely important. There is plenty of practical support available to help you integrate into society and stay productive. If you are struggling, there are many support groups and treatments available for people with spinal cord injury as listed below.
We also offer a community with our me+ support program. Read a variety of stories from users who
could relate to your experiences. Click here to access our me+ Community.
Explore related resources:
Enroll in me+™ or Request Product Samples
Adjusting to cathing can be tough, with a range of practical, physical and emotional challenges. You don’t have to figure it out alone.
Speak with a member of the me+™ support team today.