A spinal-cord trauma is a medical emergency requiring immediate treatment to reduce the long-term effects. The time between the injury and treatment is a critical factor in affecting the outcome.
Corticosteroids such as dexamethasone or methylprednisolone are used to reduce swelling that may compress the spinal-cord. If spinal-cord compression can be relieved before there is total destruction of the nerves of the spine, paralysis may in some cases be reduced or relieved. Ideally, corticosteroids should begin within 8 hours after the injury. Surgery will most likely be recommended. This may include surgery to remove fluid or tissue that presses on the spinal-cord (decompression laminectomy).
Surgery may also be needed to remove bone fragments or foreign objects or to stabilize fractured (broken) vertebrae (by fusion of the bones or insertion of hardware).
Bed rest is needed to allow the spine, which bears most of the weight of the body, to heal.
Anatomic realignment is important. Spinal traction may reduce dislocation and/or may be used to immobilize the spine. This may include immobilization of the skull by use of tongs (metal braces placed in the skull and attached to traction weights or to a harness on the body).
Even though bed rest is required to allow the surgery to heal, it is EXTREMELY important that range of motion is administered by a physical therapist. Moving the patients arms, hands, fingers, legs and even toes will prevent joint contractures and help increase blood flow. Increased blood flow will help prevent bed sores and blood clots that can occur from decreased circulation. Family and friends can also learn how to give range of motion to the patient.