SCI - Spinal Cord Injury - C6 & C7 Quadriplegia

What is C6 & C7 Quadriplegia?

C6 and C7 vertebrae are the lowest levels of the cervical spine, near the base of the neck. Generally, spinal cord injuries corresponding to these regions impact a person below their rib cage. Learn More

Typical Abilities of persons with C6 & C7 Quadriplegia:

Ventilator assistance is not necessary for these levels of injury. Most patients also have the ability to dress the upper half of their body by themselves as well as perform simple grooming tasks such as shaving and brushing hair and teeth with the use of palm straps. Can use wheelchairs and are able to transfer self from chair to bed if circumstances are favorable.

Typical Disabilities:

Patients with spinal cord damage near the C6 vertebra will likely have numbness in the fingers, hands, and arms.They may also experience paralysis, inability to control bladder/bowel function, and have taxed breathing. Symptoms of spinal cord injuries corresponding to C7 vertebrae include taxed breathing, compromised dexterity in hands/fingers, lack of bowel/bladder control, and burning pain in the shoulder blades.

Resources: American Trauma Society | Help Hope Live | Christopher & Dana Reeve Foundation - Get Support