Spinal Cord Injury
Spinal Cord Injury Rehabilitation in Burlington
Regain Independence and Mobility with Expert Physiotherapy
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At Cogent Physical Rehabilitation Center in Burlington, we understand how life-changing a spinal cord injury (SCI) can be. Whether caused by trauma, disease, or medical conditions, SCI often leads to challenges with movement, sensation, strength, and independence. Our experienced physiotherapists provide evidence-based care to help you recover function, prevent complications, and maximize quality of life.
What Is a Spinal Cord Injury?
A spinal cord injury occurs when damage to the spinal cord results in partial or complete loss of motor control, sensation, and function below the level of the injury. This can affect mobility, bladder and bowel function, breathing, and daily activities. Common causes include:
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Motor vehicle accidents
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Falls
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Sports injuries
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Violence or trauma
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Infections, tumors, or degenerative conditions
Symptoms of Spinal Cord Injuries
The effects of SCI depend on the severity (complete or incomplete injury) and the location of the damage. Symptoms may include:
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Loss of movement or weakness in arms or legs
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Loss of sensation (heat, cold, touch)
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Difficulty with balance or walking
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Bowel or bladder dysfunction
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Spasticity or muscle stiffness
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Pain or tingling sensations
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Breathing difficulties (especially with higher-level injuries)
When To Seek Help
When to See a Physiotherapist
If you are living with the effects of a spinal cord injury, physiotherapy can play an essential role in your recovery and long-term independence. You should consider seeking professional help if you are experiencing:
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Mobility Challenges – difficulty walking, transferring, or performing everyday activities.
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Muscle Spasms or Stiffness (Spasticity) – involuntary contractions that limit movement or cause discomfort.
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Weakness or Fatigue – reduced strength in the arms, legs, or trunk that interferes with balance or independence.
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Pain and Discomfort – persistent nerve pain, joint pain, or musculoskeletal issues following your injury.
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Balance and Coordination Issues – unsteadiness when standing or walking, frequent falls, or difficulty using mobility aids.
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Self-Management Support – needing education on posture, positioning, exercise, or equipment use at home.
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Long-Term Recovery Needs – planning to return to work, school, sports, or community activities.
Why Choose Cogent Rehab Burlington?
At Cogent Physical Rehabilitation Center, our team specializes in complex neurological rehabilitation. We focus not only on restoring physical ability but also on empowering patients to adapt and thrive. Here’s what sets us apart:
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Specialized Neurological Physiotherapy tailored to SCI recovery
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Comprehensive treatment plans addressing mobility, strength, and independence
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Use of advanced rehabilitation methods including therapeutic exercise, functional training, and assistive technology
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Compassionate, patient-centered care for long-term wellness
Treatment Options for Spinal Cord Injuries
At Cogent Physical Rehabilitation Center in Burlington, we use a comprehensive, evidence-based approach to help individuals with spinal cord injuries improve mobility, strength, and independence. Treatment is highly individualized, addressing the specific level of injury, functional goals, and lifestyle needs of each patient.
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Therapeutic Exercise – Strengthening weakened muscles, maintaining flexibility, improving balance and postural control and retraining motor patterns. Exercises are tailored to support walking, transfers, and daily activities.
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Functional Electrical Stimulation (FES) & Neuromuscular Re-education – To activate weak or paralyzed muscles, improving walking ability, circulation, muscle tone, prevent muscle atrophy and supports recovery of functional movements.
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Manual Therapy – to reduce stiffness, improve posture, and mobilize joints and soft tissues and manage secondary pain in the spine, shoulders, and hips.
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Sports and Movement Rehabilitation – Gait and movement rehabilitation techniques adapted for SCI patients including treadmill training and balance-focused re-education.
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Education & Self-Management – Teaching patients and caregivers on how to prevent complications, improve independence, and integrate rehabilitation strategies into daily life.
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Assistive Technology & Orthotics – Working closely with patients to select and train in the use of orthotics, mobility aids, and adaptive equipment for safe participation in daily and recreational activities.
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FAQs About Spinal Cord Injury
Q1. Can physiotherapy help if my spinal cord injury happened years ago?
Yes. Physiotherapy can still improve strength, reduce spasticity, enhance mobility, and optimize independence—even long after the initial injury.
Q2. Will I be able to walk again after a spinal cord injury?
Recovery varies widely. Our physiotherapists design individualized programs to maximize your potential, whether that means walking with assistance, using adaptive strategies, or improving quality of movement.
Q3. How soon should I start rehabilitation after a spinal cord injury?
The sooner the better. Early intervention helps prevent complications, maintain flexibility, and build a strong foundation for long-term recovery.
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Q4. Do I need special equipment for spinal cord rehabilitation?
Not always. While some patients benefit from orthotics, braces, or mobility aids, many exercises and therapies can be performed with minimal equipment. Your physiotherapist will recommend assistive devices only when necessary for your progress and safety.
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Q5. How long does recovery take after a spinal cord injury?
Recovery varies widely depending on the severity and level of injury. Some patients see progress within weeks, while others require months or years of ongoing therapy. At Cogent Rehab, we focus on long-term functional improvement and maintaining independence.
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Q6. Can physiotherapy help me walk again after a spinal cord injury?
Physiotherapy cannot guarantee walking recovery for every patient, but it plays a crucial role in improving mobility, strength, and function. Many patients regain independence in walking or improve their ability to use assistive devices safely with treatments such as gait training, functional electrical stimulation and tailored exercises.