Spinal Cord Injuries

What Is a Spinal Cord Injury?

A spinal cord injury is a condition that results from damage or trauma to the nerve tissue of the spine. In the neck and chest area of the spine that nerve tissue is called the “spinal cord;” in the lower back region that nerve tissue is called the “cauda equina.” Normally the spinal cord and cauda equina carry nerve signals between the arms and legs and the brain, resulting in our ability to move and feel. If the nerve tissue becomes injured, as can occur in a spinal fracture, there can be either total or partial loss of movement (paralysis) or sensation.