neck muscles
C4
Diaphragm, upper traps
C5
deltoids, biceps
C6
wrist extensors
triceps, extensor digitorum
C8
Flexor digitorum
hand intrinsics
intercostals
abdominal
Quadriplegia:
spinal cord injury above the first thoracic vertebra
* Can often use arms/wrists
* Never has full use of hands
the level of injury occurs below the first thoracic vertebra.
* Small muscles in their hands
* Finger abduction
C8-T1- what is this now considered
paraplegia
OT tx goals motor:
OT tx goals sensory:
¨ Educate to compensate for decreased sensation
¨ Teach visual skin inspection
OT tx goals self-care
¨ Teach alternative strategies for ADLs
¨ Train in use of assistive devices, home/environmental adaptations.
OT tx goals productivity
¨ Determine vocational goals
OT tx goals leisure
¨ Expand and develop leisure interests.
Autonomic Dysreflexia
irritation below level of injury, message cannot get to the brain, reflex
Symptoms of Autonomic Dysreflexia
Headache, profuse sweating, anxiety, flushed
What could be an irritant that leads to Autonomic Dysreflexia
overfull bladder, ingrown toenail, clothing too tight, infection
What should you do for a client with Autonomic Dysreflexia symptoms?
Sit upright, call for help, loosen clothing, check urinary drainage
Orthostatic hypotension
Drop in BP caused by going from lying to sitting or standing
Signs of Orthostatic hypotension
Lightheaded, dizzy, loss of vision, seeing dots
Tx for orthostatic hypotension
Lie down until symptoms ease
Binder or compression socks