At Magnus Physiotherapy Antwerp, we offer specialized physical therapy for people with Spinal Cord injuries (SCI). Discover more on our approach on this page

Table of contents

1. What is a spinal cord injury?

A spinal cord injury (SCI) is damage to the spinal cord that results in partial or complete loss of motor and/or sensory function below the level of injury. Depending on the location and severity, symptoms can range from reduced muscle strength to full paralysis.

Symptoms

  • Motor impairments: muscle weakness, paralysis in arms and/or legs, loss of coordination
  • Sensory impairments: reduced or absent sensation (touch, temperature, pain)
  • Autonomic dysfunction: bladder and bowel control problems, blood pressure instability, sexual dysfunction
  • Secondary complications: muscle spasms, pressure sores, respiratory problems

Causes

Spinal cord injuries are most often caused by:
• Traumatic events: road traffic accidents, falls, sports injuries, violence
• Non-traumatic causes: tumors, infections, degenerative diseases, vascular disorders

For more information, please look at the Spinal cord injury page on Wikipedia.

2. Epidemiology in Belgium

  • Number of patients: Around 40,000 people in Belgium live with long-term consequences of a spinal cord injury.
  • Incidence: Each year, approximately 30 new SCI cases per million inhabitants are reported in Europe.
  • Age dependency: Younger adults are more affected by traumatic SCI (e.g., traffic accidents), while non-traumatic SCI is more common in people over 60.
  • Gender: Men are 2–3 times more likely to sustain a spinal cord injury than women.
  • Trends: Advances in acute care have improved survival, but long-term rehabilitation remains essential.

3. Why specialized physiotherapy?

Physiotherapy plays a key role in spinal cord injury rehabilitation. It helps prevent complications, maintain existing functions, and stimulate neuroplasticity.

Physiotherapist focus on the following areas:

  • Maintaining and improving mobility
  • Strengthening preserved muscle function
  • Balance and posture training
  • Training in functional independence (e.g., transfers, wheelchair mobility, standing)
  • Preventing complications such as contractures and pressure sores

All of our Magnus physiotherapists follow scientifically proven rehabilitation programs and adapt treatments to your personal situation.

4. Our approach in Antwerp

  • Individual screening: assessment of neurological level, motor and sensory function, and personal goals
  • Customized treatment plan: exercises for strength, balance, and coordination tailored to your injury level
  • Functional training: transfers, wheelchair skills, walking with aids, daily living activities
  • Home advice: positioning strategies, stretching, and exercises to continue independently
  • Regular evaluation: objective testing to monitor progress and adjust therapy accordingly

5. Frequently asked questions about Parkinson's disease and physiotherapy

What exactly does physical therapy do for spinal cord injury?

Physiotherapy helps preserve mobility and strength, train functional independence, and prevent complications. It focuses on maximizing quality of life within your possibilities.

How often should I undergo physical therapy after SCI?

This depends on the severity of the injury and your rehabilitation phase. Intensive therapy (several sessions per week) is usually required in the first months, followed by long-term maintenance.

Can I do exercises at home?

Yes, your therapist will provide safe home exercises adapted to your condition. These may include stretching, strengthening, and breathing exercises.

Does physical therapy cure spinal cord injury?

No, physiotherapy cannot restore a completely severed spinal cord. However, it can stimulate recovery in incomplete injuries, maintain residual function, and optimize independence.

Is physical therapy reimbursed?

Yes, with a prescription from your general practitioner or specialist, you are entitled to partial reimbursement through your health insurance fund. At Magnus Physiotherapy Antwerp, we support you with the paperwork.

Is physiotherapy useful at all stages of SCI?

Yes, physiotherapy is beneficial both in the acute rehabilitation phase and in the chronic stage. Therapy goals will adapt to your needs over time.

6. Make an appointment in Antwerp 

Are you looking for an experienced physiotherapist for spinal cord injury rehabilitation in Antwerp?
At Magnus Physiotherapy, we are happy to help you maintain or improve your mobility, strength, and independence.

👉 Contact us via our contactpagina, WhatsApp, or book with our specialist Stefanos via his online schedule.

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