Spinal cord injury (SCI) can, unfortunately, cause numerous complications in various parts of the body. Injuries rarely affect just one isolated area, and this article will discuss the way in which spinal cord injury can affect, and create complications with, the motor cortex; resulting in paralysis.
What is the motor cortex?
The motor cortex is a region of the brain, located in the frontal lobe, which is involved in controlling and ordering voluntary movements of an individual. There are three parts of the motor cortex; all with slightly differing functions- primary motor cortex, premotor cortex, and the supplementary motor area.
The primary motor cortex, also referred to as M1, generates neural impulses. These control the execution of movement of body parts, including the face, neck, arms, trunk and legs. Of course, this movement only happens after the impulse travels a journey involving the brain, brainstem, and spinal cord.
What does it have to do with spinal cord injury?
The brain is responsible for sending a message to the body to initiate a desired voluntary movement. The most forward part of the frontal lobe is responsible for receiving information from other locations in the brain regarding the individual’s position and situation. It will then determine the appropriate muscles to contract in order to move in the desired way.
The axons of the neurons from the motor cortex delve into the spinal cord itself, through the corticospinal tract. In fact, these axons include some of the longest in the entire central nervous system! This is where the message from the motor cortex ends, reaching the spinal cord motor neurons, attached to specific muscles. On arrival, they cause the muscles to contract and complete the movement.
So, what will be the problem with the motor cortex after SCI?
If an accident has caused your spinal cord to be damaged, it is highly likely you will experience damage to the motor neurones in that same area. Damaged motor pathways, from the brain to the spine, can disrupt messages from successfully getting from A to B, causing a lack or loss of motor function.
This loss of motor function is more commonly known as paralysis, and this is common in SCI patients, whether it remains temporary or permanent. The higher up the position on the back of a SCI, the less likely the pathway to motor neurones of specific muscles are to remain in tact.
Is there any treatment?
Unfortunately, there is no cure for permanent paralysis. Medical specialists instead work to ensure that an individual with SCI-caused paralysis is enabled to create a life with as much independence as possible. These efforts are crucial to their psychological and emotional well-being.
Medical professionals have yet to find a way to repair or reverse the damage spinal cord injuries have on these neural pathways, although modern devices and aids can assist greatly in the day-to-day life of somebody who is paralyzed.
Surgery can be offered to remove fragmented bone and other potentially harmful objects in the area, and experimental treatments have been looking into nerve regeneration. Treatment varies dependent on the individual’s needs, so take the time to discuss your best option for moving forward with your medical team , as well as the best location for your continued care.
