The National Spinal Cord Injury Statistical Center estimates approximately 300,000 people are living with spinal cord injuries (SCI) in the United States. Many SCI survivors are paralyzed, while some never lose function in their limbs. Many SCI survivors live with neuropathy or residual pain near the injury site. Very few SCI patients live the normal life they did before; even the most minor spinal cord injuries can create lifelong challenges.
Aside from injuries, plenty of people are living with spinal cord disorders every day. These people were not injured. Rather, they have lived with their spinal condition since birth. Some spinal cord disorders include:
- Spinal muscular atrophy
- Multiple sclerosis
- Infections that reach the spine like meningitis and polio
- Arthritis in the spine
- Osteoporosis
Cause and Risks Associated with Spinal Cord Injuries and Disorders
There isn’t one singular cause for these injuries. The most common reasons for SCIs, in order, are car crashes, falls, violence, sports, and medical/surgical.
The same is true of spinal cord disorders. Osteoporosis, for example, can be caused by a calcium deficiency. Conditions like spinal muscular atrophy are genetic.
Osteoarthritis located in the spine is generally a result of wear and tear over time. As you can see, spinal conditions are quite diverse.
Natural Treatments for Spinal Cord Injuries and Diseases
While spinal cord injuries and conditions cannot be cured or even treated through an alternative treatment method, natural treatments can help reduce symptoms to improve quality of life. Always consult your physician before proceeding with a natural treatment.
Unfortunately, opioids and spinal cord injuries go hand in hand because SCI survivors experience a lot of pain. Opioids are highly addictive, and according to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, 50,000 people died in 2019 from opioid-involved overdoses.
Natural treatments for spinal cord injuries or conditions can help with pain management, anxiety, sleep, and appetite.
Medical Cannabis
Over half of the United States has implemented a medical cannabis program so far. It’s only natural to wonder if cannabis might be a good solution for you. Chronic pain is the most common reason people seek medical cannabis, with 62% of patients consuming it for pain.
Cannabis works by interacting with the body’s endocannabinoid system. The endocannabinoid system is a biological system every human being has, and it’s made up of two receptors: CB1 and CB2. These receptors interact with cannabinoids like THC to create positive changes in our bodies. You can find the CB1 and CB2 receptors in various locations, but CB1 receptors are prominent in the spinal cord.
If you’re interested in trying medical cannabis, sign up with Heally. We’ll connect you with a certified doctor in your state to begin the certification process to receive your medical marijuana card.
Massage Therapy
SCI survivors should receive clearance from their physician to have bodywork done after their injury. Find a great massage therapist that specializes in spinal cord injury patients for the best results.
There are many benefits to massage therapy, including:
- Improved circulation
- Reducing stress and anxiety
- Decreasing inflammation
Hot Tub
Hot tubs can bring relief to SCI survivors. There is substantial research to support the benefits of aquatic therapy for patients with spinal cord injuries and disorders. The warm water can soothe pain and the water’s anti-gravity effects relieve pressure from the injury site.
For more natural remedies for spinal cord injuries and diseases, reach out to us at Heally today.
