---
title: 10 Disability Scholarships You Need to Look Into
description: There are many scholarships for students with disabilities available online that people with spinal cord injuries and other disabilities can apply for. Here is a list of 10 disability scholarships to help you get started with your search.
image: https://www.spinalcord.com/hubfs/Disability-scholarships-blog-post2.jpeg
---

[![spinalcord logo desktop](https://www.spinalcord.com/hubfs/Logos/spinal-cord_png.png) ![spinalcord logo mobile](https://www.spinalcord.com/hubfs/Logos/spinal-cord-white_png.png) ](https://www.spinalcord.com/)

MENU **

![spinal cord logo slide out mobile](https://www.spinalcord.com/hubfs/Logos/spinal-cord_png.png)

**

[![Dale Swope](https://www.spinalcord.com/hs-fs/hubfs/dale-img-min.jpg?width=100&name=dale-img-min.jpg)

The Purpose Behind Spinalcord.com

** Play

Dale Swope's Story

](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C1kPXDw_CQU) [For Advice Call:

(877) 336-7192

](tel:8773367192) ![Spinalcord Logo](https://www.spinalcord.com/hubfs/Logos/spinal-cord-logo-icon-svg.svg)

- [About](https://www.spinalcord.com/about-us) 
    - [About Us](https://www.spinalcord.com/about-us)
    - [Our Team](https://www.spinalcord.com/our-team)
    - [Trusted By](https://www.spinalcord.com/trusted-by)
- [Journal](https://www.spinalcord.com/blog)
- [Spinal Cord Injury](https://www.spinalcord.com/spinal-cord-injury) 
    - Spinal Injury Types 
          - [What is Spinal Cord?](https://www.spinalcord.com/what-is-the-spinal-cord)
          - [Types of Spinal Cord Injuries](https://www.spinalcord.com/types-of-spinal-cord-injuries)
          - [Secondary Complications](https://www.spinalcord.com/secondary-complications-after-sci-spinal-cord-injury)
          - [Cervical Spine](https://www.spinalcord.com/cervical-spinal-cord-injury)
          - [Thoracic Spine](https://www.spinalcord.com/thoracic-spinal-cord-injury)
          - [Lumbar Spine](https://www.spinalcord.com/lumbar-l1-l5-vertebrae-spinal-cord-injury)
          - [Sacral Spine](https://www.spinalcord.com/sacral-spine-s1-s5-vertebrae-injuries-sacral-sparing)
    - Paralysis Types 
          - [Paralysis](https://www.spinalcord.com/paralysis)
          - [Types of Paralysis](https://www.spinalcord.com/types-of-paralysis)
          - [Monoplegia](https://www.spinalcord.com/monoplegia)
          - [Diplegia](https://www.spinalcord.com/diplegia)
          - [Hemiplegia](https://www.spinalcord.com/hemiplegia)
          - [Paraplegia](https://www.spinalcord.com/paraplegia)
          - [Quadriplegia | Tetraplegia](https://www.spinalcord.com/quadriplegia-tetraplegia)
    - Additional Info 
          - [Spinal Cord Injury Lawyer](https://www.spinalcord.com/spinal-cord-injury-lawyer)
          - [Causes](https://www.spinalcord.com/causes-of-non-traumatic-traumatic-spinal-cord-injuries)
          - [Symptoms](https://www.spinalcord.com/signs-symptoms-of-spinal-cord-injuries)
          - [Prognosis](https://www.spinalcord.com/prognosis-of-spinal-cord-injuries)
          - [Mental Health Care After SCI](https://www.spinalcord.com/mental-health-care-after-sci)
          - [Life After SCI](https://www.spinalcord.com/life-after-a-spinal-cord-injury)
          - [Resources for Veterans](https://www.spinalcord.com/blog/topic/veterans)
- [Brain Injury](https://www.spinalcord.com/traumatic-brain-injury-acquired-brain-injury) 
    - Brain Injury Types 
          - [Traumatic Brain Injury](https://www.spinalcord.com/traumatic-brain-injury)
          - [ Acquired Brain Injury](https://www.spinalcord.com/acquired-brain-injury)
          - [Anoxic Brain Injury](https://www.spinalcord.com/anoxic-brain-injury)
          - [Diffuse Axonal Brain Injury](https://www.spinalcord.com/diffuse-axonal-brain-injury)
          - [ Focal Brain Injury](https://www.spinalcord.com/focal-brain-injury)
          - [ Subdural Hematoma](https://www.spinalcord.com/subdural-hematoma)
          - [ Concussion](https://www.spinalcord.com/concussion)
          - [ Brain Aneurysm](https://www.spinalcord.com/brain-aneurysm)
          - [ Coma](https://www.spinalcord.com/coma)
    - Lobes of the Brain 
          - [ Brain Lobes Overview](https://www.spinalcord.com/lobes-of-the-brain)
          - [ Frontal Lobe](https://www.spinalcord.com/frontal-lobe)
          - [ Parietal Lobe](https://www.spinalcord.com/parietal-lobe)
          - [ Occipital Lobe](https://www.spinalcord.com/occipital-lobe)
          - [ Temporal Lobe](https://www.spinalcord.com/temporal-lobe)
          - [ Limbic Lobe](https://www.spinalcord.com/limbic-lobe)
          - [ Insular Cortex](https://www.spinalcord.com/insular-cortex)
    - Additional Info 
          - [Brain Injury Treatment](https://www.spinalcord.com/brain-injury-treatment/brain-injury-lab)
          - [ Brain Injury Lawyer](https://www.spinalcord.com/brain-injury-lawyer)
          - [ Causes](https://www.spinalcord.com/causes-of-traumatic-and-acquired-brain-injuries)
          - [ Symptoms](https://www.spinalcord.com/traumatic-brain-injury-tbi-symptoms)
          - [ Prognosis](https://www.spinalcord.com/brain-injury-prognosis-for-tbi-abi)
          - [ Resources For Veterans](https://www.spinalcord.com/blog/best-resources-for-veterans-with-spinal-cord-injuries)
- [Treatment ](https://www.spinalcord.com/treatment-for-brain-spinal-cord-injuries) 
    - [Physician Directory](https://www.spinalcord.com/brain-and-spinal-cord-injury-physician-directory)
    - [Rehabilitation Directory](https://www.spinalcord.com/spinal-cord-injury-hospitals-rehabilitation-directory)
    - [Intensive SCI Rehabilitation Centers](https://www.spinalcord.com/intensive-sci-rehabilitation-centers)
    - [Technology Advancements ](https://www.spinalcord.com/sci-technology-advancements)
    - [Activity Based Therapy Centers](https://www.spinalcord.com/activity-based-therapy-centers)
    - [Brain Injury Treatment](https://www.spinalcord.com/brain-injury-treatment/brain-injury-lab)
    - [Prevention](https://www.spinalcord.com/spinal-cord-injury-prevention)
- [Legal Options](https://www.spinalcord.com/legal-considerations-for-common-types-of-brain-and-spinal-cord-injuries) 
    - Legal Assistance 
          - [Brain Injury Lawyer](https://www.spinalcord.com/brain-injury-lawyer)
          - [Spinal Cord Injury Lawyer](https://www.spinalcord.com/spinal-cord-injury-lawyer)
          - [Where To Start](https://www.spinalcord.com/brain-spinal-cord-injury-lawyer-where-to-start)
          - [When To Get A Lawyer - eBook](https://www.spinalcord.com/your-guide-to-knowing-when-to-get-a-lawyer)
          - [Speak With An Injury Lawyer](https://www.spinalcord.com/spinal-cord-injury-legal-help-get-a-lawyer)
          - [Protecting an Accident Scene](https://www.spinalcord.com/protecting-an-accident-crime-scene)
    - Legal Considerations 
          - [Overview](https://www.spinalcord.com/legal-considerations-for-common-types-of-brain-and-spinal-cord-injuries)
          - [Car Accidents](https://www.spinalcord.com/car-accidents)
          - [Contact Sports](https://www.spinalcord.com/contact-sports)
          - [Acts of Violence](https://www.spinalcord.com/acts-of-violence)
          - [Workplace Injuries](https://www.spinalcord.com/workplace-injuries)
          - [Slips and Falls](https://www.spinalcord.com/slips-and-falls)
          - [Contusions](https://www.spinalcord.com/contusions)
    - Personal Injury Claims 
          - [Types](https://www.spinalcord.com/types-of-personal-injury-claims)
          - [How to File a Personal Injury Claim](https://www.spinalcord.com/how-to-file-a-personal-injury-claim-for-a-brain-or-spinal-cord-injury)
- [Resources](https://www.spinalcord.com/spinal-cord-resources) 
    - Coping & Support 
          - [Survivor Stories](https://www.spinalcord.com/blog/topic/survivor-stories-inspiration)
          - [Family & Friends](https://www.spinalcord.com/family-friends-of-brain-spinal-cord-injury-patients)
          - [Support Groups](https://www.spinalcord.com/spinal-cord-injury-support-groups)
          - [Support Groups Interactive Map](https://www.spinalcord.com/spinal-cord-injury-support-groups-map)
          - [Advocacy Groups](https://www.spinalcord.com/advocacy-groups)
    - Financial Resources 
          - [Financial Help](https://www.spinalcord.com/financial-resources)
          - [Grants](https://www.spinalcord.com/spinal-cord-injury-grants)
          - [Compensation](https://www.spinalcord.com/spinal-cord-injury-compensation)
          - [Brain & SCI Medical Expenses](https://www.spinalcord.com/brain-and-spinal-cord-injury-medical-expenses)
          - [Money Management Tips](https://www.spinalcord.com/money-management-tips)
          - [Life Care Plan](https://www.spinalcord.com/spinal-cord-injury-life-care-plan)
    - Legal Assistance 
          - [Brain Injury Lawyer](https://www.spinalcord.com/brain-injury-lawyer)
          - [Spinal Cord Injury Lawyer](https://www.spinalcord.com/spinal-cord-injury-lawyer)
          - [Where To Start](https://www.spinalcord.com/brain-spinal-cord-injury-lawyer-where-to-start)
          - [Speak With An Injury Lawyer](https://www.spinalcord.com/spinal-cord-injury-legal-help-get-a-lawyer)
          - [Personal Injury Lawyer](https://www.swoperodante.com/tampa-personal-injury-lawyer/)
    - Digital Resources 
          - [Frequently Asked Questions & Answers](https://www.spinalcord.com/frequently-asked-questions-and-answers)
          - [When To Get A Lawyer](https://www.spinalcord.com/your-guide-to-knowing-when-to-get-a-lawyer)
          - [Organizing Life From A Hospital](https://www.spinalcord.com/blog/traumatic-injury-digital-tools-organize-from-hospital)
          - [Free Brain and Spinal Cord eBooks](https://www.spinalcord.com/spinal-cord-resources)
          - [Spinal Cord Infographics](https://www.spinalcord.com/infographics)
          - [SCI Life Uncovered Podcast](https://www.spinalcord.com/sci-life-uncovered/episode-1)
- Local Resources 
    - [Florida Spinal Cord Injury Resources ](https://www.spinalcord.com/florida-sci-resources)
    - [Local Assistance](https://www.spinalcord.com/florida-personal-injury-claims)
    - [Map of State Resources](https://www.spinalcord.com/state-programs)
- [Community](https://www.spinalcord.com/spinal-cord-injury-community) 
    - [Trusted Organizations](https://www.spinalcord.com/trusted-by-the-spinal-cord-injury-community)
    - [Events Calendar](https://www.spinalcord.com/events)
    - [Podcast](https://www.spinalcord.com/sci-life-uncovered/episode-1)
- Recognition 
    - [Best of Awards](https://www.spinalcord.com/best-of-awards)
    - [Trusted By Designation](https://www.spinalcord.com/trusted-by-the-spinal-cord-injury-community)

- [** ](tel:8773367192)
- [** ](https://www.spinalcord.com/blog/10-disability-scholarships-you-need-to-look-into#)
- [**
  
  **(877) 336-7192**
  
  ](tel:8773367192)
- [**
  
  **Contact Us**
  
  ](https://www.spinalcord.com/contact-us)

# 10 Disability Scholarships You Need to Look Into

 Author: [Spinal Cord Team](https://www.spinalcord.com/meet-our-authors)

 Publish Date: December 08, 2020

The costs of living with a spinal cord injury (SCI) can put a lot of financial strain on you and your family. According to the [National Spinal Cord Injury Statistical Center](https://www.nscisc.uab.edu/public_pages/FactsFiguresArchives/Facts%20and%20Figures%20-%202018.pdf) (NSCISC), individuals with high tetraplegia spinal cord injuries can find themselves facing average yearly expenses of $1.1 million and more than $191,000 for each subsequent year. As a result of these mounting costs, many SCI survivors might think that pursuing a degree will be out of their reach. 

However, the good news is that there are disability scholarships available that can help you cope with some of the costs you may face in your daily life. There is an abundance of [scholarships](https://www.spinalcord.com/scholarship) for students with disabilities available online based on a variety of factors, including disabilities, race, financial needs, and interests. While the awards are for academic purposes, there also are [disability grants](https://www.spinalcord.com/spinal-cord-injury-grants) available from [spinal cord injury grant programs](https://www.spinalcord.com/blog/the-top-10-spinal-cord-injury-grant-programs) that can help to cover some of the costs relating to medical and personal care, assistive devices, and prescriptions.

We’ve put together a list of some of the best spinal cord injury disability scholarships. Note: These scholarships are not listed in any particular order.

## **Disability Scholarships for People with SCIs and Other Disabilities**

These scholarships for students with disabilities vary in both the award amount and the needs that they can fund. The scholarships include opportunities for existing students with spinal cord injuries and other injuries, as well as those who are looking to return to school.

### **1. Swope, Rodante P.A. Research Scholarships**

Spinal cord injury and traumatic brain injury law firm (and founder of SpinalCord.com) [Swope, Rodante P.A.](https://www.swoperodante.com/) awards a bi-annual [research scholarship](https://www.swoperodante.com/community/scholarship/) worth $2,500. The scholarship is awarded once in July and once in December to “students who go out of their way to help others, with the hope that, upon completion of their education, these students will continue with philanthropic efforts as leaders of the community.”

### **2. Will2Walk Scholarship Program**

The [Will2Walk Foundation](https://will2walk.org/scholarship-program/) offers scholarships of up to $5,000 per applicant to individuals with spinal cord injuries to cover part or all of the cost for certain items and services. According to the website, the costs can cover fees relating to “fitness memberships, team dues, everyday living supplies, work related equipment, educational expenses or participation in a special event related to spinal cord injuries.” Applicants are eligible to receive up to one scholarship per calendar year.

### **3. American Association on Health and Disability Scholarship**

The [American Association on Health and Disability](https://www.aahd.us/initiatives/scholarship-program/) (AAHD) offers the AAHD Frederick J. Krause Scholarship on Health and Disability for up to $1,000 per award. The scholarship for disabled students is awarded annually to a deserving student (who is at least a sophomore) who is pursuing undergraduate/graduate studies in an accredited university. The student must be:

> *“pursuing studies related to the health and disability, to include, but not limited to public health, health promotion, disability studies, disability research, rehabilitation engineering, audiology, disability policy, special education and majors that will impact quality of life of persons with disabilities.”*

### **4. Tighten the Drag Foundation Scholarships**

The [Tighten the Drag Foundation](http://www.tightenthedragfoundation.org/scholarships) offers scholarships for students with disabilities who have either suffered catastrophic spinal cord injuries while residing in the Southeastern United States (specifically Alabama, Florida, Georgia, or Mississippi) or attend an adaptive sports program located there. According to the website, the Foundation was created because they believe that recovery is possible through “activity based exercise programs, recreational adaptive sporting events, good health and nutrition and a positive state of mind.” The application guidelines form states that “there are no maximum benefits” for the scholarships they offer.

### **5. 1800Wheelchair.com Scholarship Fund**

Each year, the [1800Wheelchair Scholarship Fund](https://www.1800wheelchair.com/scholarship/) offers one to two $500 scholarships for students who explore mobility issues on campus, overcoming personal challenges, and other related topics. Applicants must submit a “visual poem” in a style of your choosing, on the theme of overcoming a personal challenge. The application does not specify whether preference will be given to individuals with disabilities.

### **6. Bryon Riesch Paralysis Foundation Scholarships**

The [Bryon Riesch Paralysis Foundation](http://brpf.org/) offers scholarships for students with disabilities that range from $2,000 to $4,000 for post-high school education. According to the website, preference will be given to individuals who live in Wisconsin and who have:

> *“direct spinal cord injuries and diseases resulting in paralysis such as spinal tumors, strokes or aneurysms affecting the spinal cord, or spina bifida. Other diseases and disorders that would be considered include MS, traumatic brain injuries, Parkinson’s and cerebral palsy.” *

### **7. NBCUniversal Tony Coelho Media Scholarship**

The [NBCUniversal Tony Coelho Media Scholarship](https://www.aapd.com/nbcuniversal-tony-coelho-media-scholarship-program/), which is offered through the American Association of People with Disabilities (AAPD), offers $5,625 scholarships for disabled students for up to eight undergraduate and graduate students per year. The students must be interested in pursuing a career in the communications, entertainment, or media industries.

### **8. 180 Medical College Scholarship Program**

[180 Medical](https://www.180medical.com/scholarships) offers seven $1,000 scholarships to individuals with spinal cord injuries, spina bifida, neurogenic bladder, an ostomy (such as a colostomy, ileostomy, or urostomy), or transverse myelitis to pursue their higher education.

### **9. Foundation for Science and Disability Scholarships**

The [Foundation for Science and Disability](http://www.stemd.org/) (FSD) Student Award Program offers awards of $1,000 to support research projects of qualified university students in any field of engineering, mathematics, medicine, science, or technology. Scholarship applicants must be fourth-year undergraduates who are disabled and have been accepted to a graduate or professional school in the sciences or graduate science students who have a disability.

### **10. RehabMart.com $25,000 Scholarship Fund **

[RehabMart.com](https://www.rehabmart.com/scholarship/) offers a variety of individual scholarships ranging from $250 to $2,500. The scholarships for disabled students, or those majoring in health sciences or special needs education, are awarded annually.

We’ll conclude by stating that this is not a complete list; there are many other disability scholarships available online for people with spinal cord injuries, traumatic brain injuries, and other disabilities who are either in school or are looking to return to school. There also are many [grants](https://www.spinalcord.com/blog/how-to-find-a-spinal-cord-injury-grant) available that can help pay for adaptive technologies, accessibility home renovations, and other injury-related costs.

To learn more about the Swope, Rodante P.A. scholarship we mentioned first, click on the link below. The application period for the December 2020 scholarship is open through Sunday, Nov. 15.

 

[![Learn More About the Award  ❯](https://no-cache.hubspot.com/cta/default/575040/00d2f2e7-d8ec-46ac-99ea-abf0820987c9.png)](https://cta-redirect.hubspot.com/cta/redirect/575040/00d2f2e7-d8ec-46ac-99ea-abf0820987c9) 

 

**Topics:** Miscellaneous

### Stay Updated on Advancements On Traumatic Brain & Spinal Cord Injuries

About the Author

#### Spinal Cord Team

 The authors of Spinalcord.com are made up of attorneys, those in the medical field, and survivors of spinal cord injuries or traumatic brain injuries. Learn more about our team of authors including a brief biography that explains how they impact the SCI and TBI community. 

[Learn More About the Author](https://www.spinalcord.com/meet-our-authors)

**Leave a Comment**

[![New Call-to-action](https://no-cache.hubspot.com/cta/default/575040/dc8bc979-ba55-463a-9400-f92cbdebcb1a.png)](https://cta-redirect.hubspot.com/cta/redirect/575040/dc8bc979-ba55-463a-9400-f92cbdebcb1a)

true

### Spinal Cord Injury

- [Types of Spinal Cord Injuries](https://www.spinalcord.com/types-of-spinal-cord-injuries)
- [Secondary Complications](https://www.spinalcord.com/secondary-complications-after-sci-spinal-cord-injury)
- [Causes](https://www.spinalcord.com/signs-symptoms-of-spinal-cord-injuries)
- [Symptoms](https://www.spinalcord.com/types-of-spinal-cord-injuries)
- [Prognosis](https://www.spinalcord.com/prognosis-of-spinal-cord-injuries)
- [Legal Help](https://www.spinalcord.com/spinal-cord-injury-legal-help-get-a-lawyer)

### Brain Injury

- [Types of Brain Injuries](https://www.spinalcord.com/types-of-traumatic-brain-injury)
- [Causes](https://www.spinalcord.com/causes-of-traumatic-and-acquired-brain-injuries)
- [Symptoms](https://www.spinalcord.com/traumatic-brain-injury-tbi-symptoms)
- [Prognosis](https://www.spinalcord.com/brain-injury-prognosis-for-tbi-abi)
- [Legal Help](https://www.spinalcord.com/brain-injury-legal-help-get-a-lawyer)

### Finding Treatment

- [Physician Directory](https://www.spinalcord.com/brain-and-spinal-cord-injury-physician-directory)
- [Rehabilitation Directory](https://www.spinalcord.com/spinal-cord-injury-hospitals-rehabilitation-directory)
- [Technology Advancements](https://www.spinalcord.com/sci-technology-advancements)
- [Prevention](https://www.spinalcord.com/spinal-cord-injury-prevention)

### Legal Options

- [Spinal Cord Injury Lawyer](https://www.spinalcord.com/spinal-cord-injury-lawyer)
- [Brain Injury Lawyer](https://www.spinalcord.com/brain-injury-lawyer)
- [Types of Personal Injury Claims](https://www.spinalcord.com/types-of-personal-injury-claims)
- [Where To Start](https://www.spinalcord.com/brain-spinal-cord-injury-lawyer-where-to-start)
- [Local Assistance](https://www.spinalcord.com/florida-personal-injury-claims)

#### [About Us](https://www.spinalcord.com/about-us)

Spinal cord injuries are traumatic for patients and their families. They cause disruptive changes to every aspect of your life and there is a lot of new information to navigate and understand. Our experts have collected everything in one place to help you learn more about your injury, locate doctors and treatment centers, find financial support, and get assistance navigating your next move.

[Learn More About SpinalCord.com →](https://www.spinalcord.com/about-us)

## [Contact Us](https://www.spinalcord.com/contact-us)

![logo-footer-spinal-cord.png](https://www.spinalcord.com/hs-fs/hubfs/img/logo-footer-spinal-cord.png?width=249&name=logo-footer-spinal-cord.png "logo-footer-spinal-cord.png")

**  [877-336-7192](tel:8773367192)

** [support@spinalcord.com](mailto:support@spinalcord.com)

[**](https://www.facebook.com/spinalcordcom) [**](https://www.linkedin.com/company/spinalcord-com/) [**](https://twitter.com/SpinalCordCom) [**](https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCAbz2AC18acXQkpMNPeDIqg)

 Copyright 2026 | All Rights Reserved. [Spinal Cord, Inc.](https://www.spinalcord.com)

Sponsored by [Tampa personal injury lawyers](https://www.swoperodante.com/tampa-personal-injury-lawyer/) at Swope, Rodante P.A. a Florida law firm located at 1234 E 5th Ave, Tampa, FL 33605.

 The information provided by SpinalCord.com is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, see [ Disclaimer Policy.](https://www.spinalcord.com/disclaimer)

[**](https://www.spinalcord.com/blog/10-disability-scholarships-you-need-to-look-into#)

[**](https://www.spinalcord.com/blog/10-disability-scholarships-you-need-to-look-into#)

```json
{
  "@context" : "https://schema.org",
  "@type" : "WebSite",
  "name" : "Spinal Cord, Inc.",
  "potentialAction" : {
    "@type" : "SearchAction",
    "query-input" : "required name=search_query",
    "target" : "https://www.spinalcord.com/search?q={search_query}"
  },
  "url" : "https://www.spinalcord.com/"
}
```

```json
{
  "@context" : "https://schema.org",
  "@type" : "Organization",
  "contactPoint" : [ {
    "@type" : "ContactPoint",
    "contactType" : "customer service",
    "telephone" : "+1-877-336-7192"
  } ],
  "legalName" : "Spinal Cord, Inc.",
  "logo" : "https://www.spinalcord.com/hubfs/Logos/spinal-cord_png.png",
  "sameAs" : [ "https://www.facebook.com/spinalcordcom", "https://twitter.com/SpinalCordCom", "https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCAbz2AC18acXQkpMNPeDIqg", "http://www.linkedin.com/company/spinalcord-com" ],
  "url" : "https://www.spinalcord.com/"
}
```

```json
{
  "@context" : "http://schema.org",
  "@type" : "Article",
  "articleBody" : "The spinal cord is a vital part of the human body. As the vehicle responsible for carrying messages from the brain to the rest of the body and back again, even the smallest interference can be detrimental. Following a traumatic <A href=\"/spinal-cord-injury\" rel=\"noopener\" target=\"_blank\"><SPAN style=\"font-weight: 400;\">spinal cord injury</SPAN></A>, this bundle of nerves can become bruised, also known as <A href=\"//www.spinalcord.com/blog/contusion-vs.-concussion-understanding-the-difference\">a contusion.</A> Because of the nature of the nervous system, any interference can constitute a serious spinal contusion, but these facts will help you dissect all of the information from the medical professionals.</P>\n\n<H2><STRONG>What Is a Spinal Contusion?</STRONG></H2>\n<IMG src=\"https://www.spinalcord.com/hs-fs/hubfs/Blog-Images/Signs-of-a-spinal-contusion-title-image-min.jpg?width=300&amp;name=Signs-of-a-spinal-contusion-title-image-min.jpg\" alt=\"Signs-of-a-spinal-contusion-title-image\" width=\"300\" style=\"width: 300px; float: right; margin: 0px 0px 10px 10px;\" srcset=\"https://www.spinalcord.com/hs-fs/hubfs/Blog-Images/Signs-of-a-spinal-contusion-title-image-min.jpg?width=150&amp;name=Signs-of-a-spinal-contusion-title-image-min.jpg 150w, https://www.spinalcord.com/hs-fs/hubfs/Blog-Images/Signs-of-a-spinal-contusion-title-image-min.jpg?width=300&amp;name=Signs-of-a-spinal-contusion-title-image-min.jpg 300w, https://www.spinalcord.com/hs-fs/hubfs/Blog-Images/Signs-of-a-spinal-contusion-title-image-min.jpg?width=450&amp;name=Signs-of-a-spinal-contusion-title-image-min.jpg 450w, https://www.spinalcord.com/hs-fs/hubfs/Blog-Images/Signs-of-a-spinal-contusion-title-image-min.jpg?width=600&amp;name=Signs-of-a-spinal-contusion-title-image-min.jpg 600w, https://www.spinalcord.com/hs-fs/hubfs/Blog-Images/Signs-of-a-spinal-contusion-title-image-min.jpg?width=750&amp;name=Signs-of-a-spinal-contusion-title-image-min.jpg 750w, https://www.spinalcord.com/hs-fs/hubfs/Blog-Images/Signs-of-a-spinal-contusion-title-image-min.jpg?width=900&amp;name=Signs-of-a-spinal-contusion-title-image-min.jpg 900w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px\"/>\n<P>Much like any other bruise, a contusion can cause bleeding from local blood vessels and inflammation which, rather<I><SPAN style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> unlike</SPAN></I> bruises on other parts of the body, can have serious negative impacts on the spinal cord itself. Because the<A href=\"/blog/contusion-vs.-concussion-understanding-the-difference\" rel=\"noopener\" target=\"_blank\"> “blood must clot to stop the bleeding”</A>a bruise results from contusions also increase cardiovascular risks.</P>\n<P>For example, the swelling a contusion can cause will often disrupt nerve impulses that travel from the brain to the body through the spinal cord, and the severity of this will depend upon the level of injury. Unlike a concussion, a contusion would not cause unconsciousness or a ‘blackout’, but instead cause the patient to feel a numbness or tingling in the extremities.</P>\n<P>A contusion can cause spinal compression, which happens when there is pressure on the spinal cord. This can go on to cause an array of <A href=\"http://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/healthlibrary/conditions/nervous_system_disorders/spinal_cord_compression_134,13/\" rel=\"noopener\" target=\"_blank\">physical symptoms</A> such as loss of sensation in the feet, inability to use the hands and loss of sexual ability. It must be noted that not all contusions cause spinal compression, and not all spinal compression is caused by a contusion, although they do often connect this way.</P>\n<H2><STRONG>Warning Signs of a Serious Spinal Contusion to Watch For</STRONG></H2>\n<P>Firstly, doctors will try and establish what area or limb the injury has affected. Spinal contusions most often “affect the upper extremities bilaterally and also sometimes involve the lower extremities,” <A href=\"http://www.healio.com/orthopedics/journals/ortho/2012-1-35-1/%7B7b1ed5f6-d6ca-435e-b69a-dba8a6d7c3c0%7D/spinal-cord-contusions\" rel=\"noopener\" target=\"_blank\">according to Dr. Wong</A>, an orthopedic physician.</P>\n<P>Symptoms include “numbness, tingling, [or] electric shock-like sensations and burning in the extremities,” <A href=\"http://www.aans.org/patient%20information/conditions%20and%20treatments/spinal%20cord%20injury.aspx\">(American Association of Neurological Surgeons, 2016)</A>. Generally falling into the category of “spinal trauma” there are many symptoms which are similar to other forms of spinal trauma and spinal cord injury. Below are some symptoms of spinal trauma:</P>\n<UL>\n<LI>Spinal shock — or the &quot;loss of feeling or movement below site of injury&quot; <A href=\"http://www.columbianeurosurgery.org/conditions/spinal-trauma/\" rel=\"noopener\" target=\"_blank\"><I>(Columbia University Medical Centre, 2016) </I></A>that can last between hours and weeks</LI>\n<LI>Loss of bladder or bowel function</LI>\n<LI>Difficulty breathing</LI>\n<LI>Muscle spasticity</LI>\n<LI>Difficulty understanding speech</LI>\n<LI>Problems with attention</LI>\n<LI>Memory challenges</LI>\n<LI>Heart rate and blood pressure problems</LI>\n</UL>\n<P>Unfortunately, it is sometimes challenging to identify which symptoms are due to a spinal contusion, and which ones are the result of a spinal cord injury directly. It can sometimes require a few days or weeks for the body to recover from spinal trauma and reveal if any permanent damage is left from the accident that caused the SCI.</P>\n<P>Understanding what a contusion is, and how it can come into play following a spinal cord injury is important in order to clearly appreciate your injury, understand your diagnoses, and work toward treatment and a prognosis. Doctors can sometimes use jargon that’s difficult to understand, so the more you can educate yourself about your condition, the more control you can have in your recovery and treatment.</P>\n<P>If you still have questions about the details of the spinal cord and how it may be affected from your injury, please contact us or download our <A href=\"/the-simplified-guide-to-understanding-a-spinal-cord-injury\" rel=\"noopener\" target=\"_blank\">guide to understanding a spinal cord injury</A>.",
  "author" : {
    "@type" : "Person",
    "name" : "Spinalcord.com Team"
  },
  "datePublished" : "2020-12-03",
  "image" : "https://www.spinalcord.com/blog/signs-of-a-serious-spinal-contusion",
  "name" : "Warning Signs of a Serious Spinal Contusion",
  "url" : "https://www.spinalcord.com/blog/signs-of-a-serious-spinal-contusion"
}
```

```json
{
"@context":"https://schema.org",
"@graph":[{"@type":"WebSite",
"@id":"https://spinalcord.com/#website",
"url":"https://www.spinalcord.com/blog/signs-of-a-serious-spinal-contusion",
"name":"Spinal Cord Inc",
"description":"The spinal cord is a vital part of the human body. As the vehicle responsible for carrying messages from the brain to the rest of the body and back again, even the smallest interference can be detrimental. Following a traumatic spinal cord injury, this bundle of nerves can become bruised, also known as a contusion. Because of the nature of the nervous system, any interference can constitute a serious spinal contusion, but these facts will help you dissect all of the information from the medical professionals.",
"inLanguage":"en-US"},
{
"@type":"ImageObject",
"@id":"Spinalcord Logo",
"inLanguage":"en-US",
"url":"https://www.spinalcord.com/hubfs/Logos/spinal-cord_png.png",
"width":327,"height":300,
"caption":"spinal contusion"},
{
"@type":"WebPage","@id":"https://www.spinalcord.com/blog/signs-of-a-serious-spinal-contusion/#webpage",
"url":"https://www.spinalcord.com/blog/signs-of-a-serious-spinal-contusion",
"name":"Warning Signs of a Serious Spinal Contusion",
"isPartOf":{"@id":"https://spinalcord.com/#website"},
"primaryImageOfPage":{"@id":"www.spinalcord.com/blog/signs-of-a-serious-spinal-contusion/#primaryimage"},
"datePublished":"2020-12-03T18:30:35+00:00","dateModified":"2020-12-03T18:30:35+00:00",
"author":{"@id":"https://www.spinalcord.com/meet-our-authors"},
"description":"The spinal cord is a vital part of the human body. As the vehicle responsible for carrying messages from the brain to the rest of the body and back again, even the smallest interference can be detrimental. Following a traumatic spinal cord injury, this bundle of nerves can become bruised, also known as a contusion. Because of the nature of the nervous system, any interference can constitute a serious spinal contusion, but these facts will help you dissect all of the information from the medical professionals.

What Is a Spinal Contusion?
Signs-of-a-spinal-contusion-title-image
Much like any other bruise, a contusion can cause bleeding from local blood vessels and inflammation which, rather unlike bruises on other parts of the body, can have serious negative impacts on the spinal cord itself. Because the “blood must clot to stop the bleeding”a bruise results from contusions also increase cardiovascular risks.

For example, the swelling a contusion can cause will often disrupt nerve impulses that travel from the brain to the body through the spinal cord, and the severity of this will depend upon the level of injury. Unlike a concussion, a contusion would not cause unconsciousness or a ‘blackout’, but instead cause the patient to feel a numbness or tingling in the extremities.

A contusion can cause spinal compression, which happens when there is pressure on the spinal cord. This can go on to cause an array of physical symptoms such as loss of sensation in the feet, inability to use the hands and loss of sexual ability. It must be noted that not all contusions cause spinal compression, and not all spinal compression is caused by a contusion, although they do often connect this way.

Warning Signs of a Serious Spinal Contusion to Watch For
Firstly, doctors will try and establish what area or limb the injury has affected. Spinal contusions most often “affect the upper extremities bilaterally and also sometimes involve the lower extremities,” according to Dr. Wong, an orthopedic physician.

Symptoms include “numbness, tingling, [or] electric shock-like sensations and burning in the extremities,” (American Association of Neurological Surgeons, 2016). Generally falling into the category of “spinal trauma” there are many symptoms which are similar to other forms of spinal trauma and spinal cord injury. Below are some symptoms of spinal trauma:

Spinal shock — or the loss of feeling or movement below site of injury (Columbia University Medical Centre, 2016) that can last between hours and weeks
Loss of bladder or bowel function
Difficulty breathing
Muscle spasticity
Difficulty understanding speech
Problems with attention
Memory challenges
Heart rate and blood pressure problems
Unfortunately, it is sometimes challenging to identify which symptoms are due to a spinal contusion, and which ones are the result of a spinal cord injury directly. It can sometimes require a few days or weeks for the body to recover from spinal trauma and reveal if any permanent damage is left from the accident that caused the SCI.

Understanding what a contusion is, and how it can come into play following a spinal cord injury is important in order to clearly appreciate your injury, understand your diagnoses, and work toward treatment and a prognosis. Doctors can sometimes use jargon that’s difficult to understand, so the more you can educate yourself about your condition, the more control you can have in your recovery and treatment.

If you still have questions about the details of the spinal cord and how it may be affected from your injury, please contact us or download our guide to understanding a spinal cord injury.",
"breadcrumb":{"@id":"https://www.spinalcord.com/blog/signs-of-a-serious-spinal-contusion/#breadcrumb"},
"inLanguage":"en-US","potentialAction":[{"@type":"ReadAction","target":["https://www.spinalcord.com/blog/signs-of-a-serious-spinal-contusion"]}]},
{
"@type":"BreadcrumbList",
"@id":"https://www.spinalcord.com/blog/signs-of-a-serious-spinal-contusion/#breadcrumb",
"itemListElement":[{"@type":"ListItem",
"position":1,
"item":
{
"@type":"WebPage",
"@id":"https://spinalcord.com/",
"url":"https://spinalcord.com/",
"name":"Home"}},
{"@type":"ListItem",
"position":2,
"item":{"@type":"WebPage",
"@id":"https://spinalcord.com/blog/",
"url":"https://spinalcord.com/blog/",
"name":"Articles"}},
{"@type":"ListItem",
"position":3,
"item":{"@type":"WebPage",
"@id":"https://www.spinalcord.com/blog/signs-of-a-serious-spinal-contusion/",
"url":"https://www.spinalcord.com/blog/signs-of-a-serious-spinal-contusion/",
"name":"Warning Signs of a Serious Spinal Contusion"}}]},
{"@type":"Person",
"@id":"https://www.spinalcord.com/meet-our-authors",
"name":"Spinalcord Team",
"image":{"@type":"ImageObject",
"@id":"https://www.spinalcord.com/hubfs/Logos/spinal-cord_png.png",
"inLanguage":"en-US",
"url":"https://www.spinalcord.com/hubfs/Logos/spinal-cord_png.png",
"caption":"Spinalcord Team"},
"description":"The authors at SpinalCord.com come from diverse backgrounds including doctors, attorneys, medical journalist, and survivors of spinal cord injuries or traumatic brain injuries. Each author brings with them different experiences and expertise which when combined provide clinically accurate information which is useful to all individuals in the spinal cord and traumatic brain injury communities. Within the content you will find citations to medical journals, scientific research, as well as national and local resources to provide immediate support to families in need of assistance. Content is reviewed and updated regularly with changes in the clinical guidelines, new resources, and fresh ways to understand the content such as videos and infographics. ."
}
]}
```