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SHARE: Spinal Cord Infarction
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            What is spinal cord infarction?

Spinal cord infarction is a stroke within the spinal cord or the arteries that supply it. It is caused by arteriosclerosis or a thickening or closing of the major arteries to the spinal cord. Frequently spinal cord infarction is caused by a specific form of arteriosclerosis called atheromatosis, in which a deposit or accumulation of lipid-containing matter forms within the arteries.

Symptoms, which generally appear within minutes or a few hours of the infarction, may include:

Intermittent sharp or burning back pain
	Aching pain down through the legs
	Weakness in the legs

Paralysis, loss of deep tendon reflexes
	Loss of pain and temperature sensation
	Incontinence

Treatment is symptomatic. Physical and occupational therapy may help individuals recover from weakness or paralysis. A catheter may be necessary for individuals with urinary incontinence.

Recovery depends upon how quickly treatment is received and how severely the body is compromised. Paralysis may persist for many weeks or be permanent. Most individuals have a good chance of recovery.

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Learn About Clinical Trials

Clinical trials are studies that allow us to learn more about disorders and improve care. They can help connect patients with new and upcoming treatment options.

How can I or my loved one help improve care for people with spinal cord infarction?

Consider participating in a clinical trial so clinicians and scientists can learn more about spinal cord infarction and related disorders. Clinical research uses human volunteers to help researchers learn more about a disorder and perhaps find better ways to safely detect, treat, or prevent disease.

All types of volunteers are needed—those who are healthy or may have an illness or disease—of all different ages, sexes, races, and ethnicities to ensure that study results apply to as many people as possible, and that treatments will be safe and effective for everyone who will use them.

For information about participating in clinical research visitNIH Clinical Research Trials and You. Learn about clinical trials currently looking for people with spinal cord infarction atClinicaltrials.gov.

Where can I find more information about spinal cord infarction?

Information may be available from the following resources:

Christopher and Dana Reeve FoundationPhone: 973-379-2690 or 800-225-0292

MedlinePlus

Paralyzed Veterans of America (PVA)Phone: 800-424-8200

United Spinal AssociationPhone: 718-803-3782 or 800-962-9629

Learn about related topics

Spinal Cord Injury
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      Last reviewed on November 28, 2023
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