Extensive physical therapy, occupational therapy, and other rehabilitation interventions are often required after the acute injury has healed. Rehabilitation assists the person in coping with disability that results from spinal-cord trauma. The stress of illness can often be helped by joining a support group where members share common experiences and problems. See spinal injury - support group . Paralysis and loss of sensation of part of the body are common outcomes.
Death is possible, particularly if there is paralysis of the breathing muscles.
The level of injury affects the outcome. Recovery of movement or sensation within 1 week usually indicates eventual recovery of most function, although this may take 6 months or more. Losses that remain after 6 months are likely to be permanent. This person's legs cross over each other when walking.