When the injury involves the upper thorax, the normal breathing pattern is permanently altered. The diaphragm does most of the work in quiet breathing. The abdominal muscles also participate in coughing. When the intercostal and abdominal muscles are paralyzed, the entire load is taken by the diaphragm. This results in poor coughing and a high risk of pneumonia.
Pneumonia is one of the most common complications of acute spinal cord injury.
Preventive measures are very important to reduce the risk of pneumonia. Bony Dysfunction Joint and muscle contractures can occur rapidly following SCI and complicate rehabilitation later on. Early stabilization of the spine fracture allows for earlier mobilization and therefore fewer complications. The normal implications of immobility and bed rest are accelerated in SCI and must be prevented by mobilizing the patient as soon as possible. Each complication increases the hospital stay and often increases the rehab stay.