These resources outline some of the main medical tests and follow-ups that people with spinal cord injury should consider. Speak with your doctor to determine which ones are appropriate for your specific situation, and which additional tests you might need. If your doctor is willing, you can also share these resources to help your medical care team better understand SCI.
This information has been gathered from several sources, including Craig Hospital.
https://craighospital.org/uploads/CraigHospital.ReevaluationWhitepaper_2014.pdf
The recommendations for follow-ups are in addition to following your regular bowel and bladder routines, eating well, exercising as appropriate, etc. Ask your doctor about getting checked for diabetes, as the risk for developing Type 2 diabetes is higher amongst people with SCI.
During and After Rehab:
Monitor your physical and mental adjustment to your new situation. Follow recommendations from your medical care team and stay in close contact to report any changes or problems.
One Year after Rehab:
Full re-evaluation of progress since discharge from rehab.
Daily:
Self skin checks.
Once a Year:
Check weight and blood pressure. Talk to your doctor about getting a flu shot, especially for higher-level injuries.
Every Two-Three Years:
Request a physical review with your doctor or a physiatrist. Assess equipment and posture, range of
motion, contractures, and functional status. Request a urologic assessment, upper-lower tracts, and a full skin evaluation.
Every Five Years:
Complete motor and sensory testing, review changes in life situation, including coping, adjustment, life
satisfaction, etc.
Every Ten Years:
Pneumococcal pneumonia vaccination at earliest opportunity, especially for T8 and higher.
We also recommend seeing a physiatrist on a regular basis. Contact InfoLine at 1 800 689-2477 or info@sci-bc.ca for more information about the referral process to see a physiatrist in BC.
