Spinal injury

There are 50,000 people living in the UK with a spinal injury, and each year 2,500 people are injured or diagnosed with a life changing injury. Most injuries are a result of a sudden trauma, but they can be caused by conditions such as cancer, and Cauda Equina Syndrome – a rare and severe type of spinal stenosis where the nerves in the lower back suddenly become severely compressed.

A spinal cord injury can interrupt communication between the brain and the nerves in the spinal cord that control bladder and bowel function. This can cause bladder and bowel dysfunction known as neurogenic bladder or neurogenic bowel. Up to 30% of those who lose control of their bladder following an injury, may regain function again sometime after the injury. Bladder challenges may include Urgency (the sudden urge to pass urine), Frequency (passing urine frequently) and Nocturia (the need to pass urine at night). Incomplete emptying (retention of urine) is also common.

Bowel challenges may include Incontinence, urgency, and constipation. Many people feel isolated or embarrassed when they experience bladder or bowel challenges, but it is important you speak to a health care professional to obtain the right information and support as they can advise you of the best plan to manage your symptoms. Good bladder and bowel management is critical with a spinal cord injury.