Spinal Cord Injury Treatment in New Jersey
Traumatic spinal cord injuries (SCI) can be some of the most devastating injuries to the nervous system. Because the spinal cord is responsible for sending communication from the brain to the rest of the body, injury to the spinal cord can cause weakness, paralysis, numbness, loss of coordination, and bowel or bladder dysfunction.
Definition
What is Spinal Cord Injury?
Spinal cord injury refers to damage to the spinal cord caused by trauma, disease, or other conditions. This damage often impedes messages that travel between the brain and the body. The spinal cord relays messages that control movement, feeling, and many automatic functions of the body. When the spinal cord is damaged, almost every aspect of everyday function can be affected.
Injuries of the spinal cord can be classified based on the location of the injury or the severity of the damage. Spinal cord injuries can take place in any region of the spine: cervical, thoracic, or lumbar. Spinal cord injuries can also be complete or incomplete.
A complete injury leaves those affected without motor or sensory function below the point of injury. An incomplete injury leaves those affected with partial use and feeling below the point of injury.
Common symptoms of Spinal Cord Injury
Symptoms vary depending on the location and completeness of injury. Because the spinal cord sends messages to and from the brain and body, symptoms generally develop below the level of injury. Symptoms involving both arms and legs may occur with cervical level injuries, while injuries lower on the spine may only affect the legs or lower body.
A person suffering from a spinal cord injury may experience symptoms that occur immediately after injury or may develop hours to days after trauma as swelling and instability cause further damage or compression to the spinal cord.
- Loss of movement below the level of injury
- Loss of sensation or altered sensation
- Numbness or tingling in the arms, hands, legs, or feet
- Loss of bowel or bladder control
- Muscle spasticity or tightness
- Difficulty breathing with high cervical injuries
- Sexual dysfunction
- Severe neck pain or back pain
- Difficulty with balance or coordination
- Progressive neurological deficits
Neurological dysfunction
Neurologic dysfunction is one hallmark of spinal cord injury. Since the spinal cord is responsible for relaying information to and from the body, trauma to the area can result in problems with strength, sensation, coordination, reflexes, and autonomic function. This can lead to symptoms such as weakness, paralysis, numbness, altered sensation, balance problems, or bowel and bladder incontinence.
The amount of dysfunction depends on whether an injury is complete or incomplete, as well as the amount of the cord affected. Quick assessment is vital because continued compression or instability can lead to deterioration of neurologic function and decreased opportunity for recovery.
Causes
What are the common causes of Spinal Cord Injury?
The majority of spinal cord injuries are caused by trauma which forces the spine into an unnatural position. Breaks, dislocations, ruptured ligaments, herniated discs, and blunt trauma can all injure the spinal cord.
In rare cases, SCI can be caused by slow developing processes like tumors, infections, or severe degenerative diseases which constrict the spinal cord.
Common causes include:
- Motor vehicle accidents
- Falls, particularly in older adults
- Sports and recreational injuries
- Acts of violence such as gunshot wounds or stab wounds
- Surgical complications
- Tumors affecting the spinal cord
- Infections involving the spine or spinal cord
- Severe degenerative spine disease
- Traumatic spinal fractures
Understanding the cause of injury helps determine stability, treatment options, and recovery expectations.
Dr. J explained everything in a simplified way that made me very comfortable, and his staff went above and beyond.
When to reach out
When should you see a spine specialist for Spinal Cord Injury?
Suspicion of injury to the spinal cord should be evaluated quickly. Delay in diagnosis or treatment of spinal cord injury can result in permanent neurological damage.
If you have experienced a significant trauma or have acute weakness or numbness, new bowel or bladder changes, unstable gait, or worsening neurological symptoms, you should be evaluated by a specialist. This is important even if your symptoms are mild, since there may be subtle evidence of instability or ongoing cord compression.
Patients with neurological symptoms that have not resolved with initial treatment should also be evaluated.
How is Spinal Cord Injury diagnosed?
Diagnosis of a spinal cord injury at the Jey Institute will always include a neurological exam and imaging studies. We want to know the level of injury, whether there is continued compression, and the stability of the spine.
Emergent decisions can be made, so it is important we know the extent of your injuries. We test strength, sensation, reflexes, coordination, gait, and neurology.
- Immediate trauma assessment and spinal stabilization
- Detailed neurological examination using the ASIA grading scale
- MRI scans to evaluate the spinal cord and surrounding soft tissues
- CT scans to assess fractures and bony injury
- X-rays to evaluate spinal alignment and stability
- Ongoing neurological reassessment
Spinal Cord Injury treatment approach
01
Stabilization and acute care
02
Surgical decompression and stabilization
03
Rehabilitation and long-term management
Common procedures used to treat Spinal Cord Injury
Anterior & Lateral Lumbar Fusion
Anterior lumbar interbody fusion (ALIF) and lateral lumbar interbody fusion (LLIF) are techniques that access the lumbar spine through the front or side of the body rather than through the back.
Lumbar Microdiscectomy / Laminectomy
Considering a lumbar microdisectomy or laminectomy in New Jersey? Learn how the procedure works, who may be a candidate, and what to expect before and after surgery.
Anterior Cervical Discectomy and Fusion
Considering an anterior cervical discectomy and fusion in New Jersey? Learn how the procedure works, who may be a candidate, and what to expect before and after surgery.
Recovery
Recovery after Spinal Cord Injury surgery
Recovery after spinal cord injury surgery can vary based on the extent of injury, the amount of neurological damage incurred, and what procedure was done. Some patients will have significant neurological improvement within the first few weeks of recovery. Many others will continue to progress over the course of several months or years.
Typically physical therapy will begin almost immediately following surgery. Rehab will focus on building strength, mobility, balance, independence, and adapting to changes caused by neurological damage.
It is important to note that while surgery can help decompress the area and stabilize the spine, recovery of neurological function is based on how much damage the spinal cord suffered prior to receiving treatment.
Risks of untreated Spinal Cord Injury
Compression or instability that goes untreated can lead to progressive neurological decline and lasting functional loss.
Persistent spinal cord compression can lead to further injury to the spinal cord, progressive weakness, loss of sensation, bowel and bladder dysfunction, and loss of mobility.
Permanent paralysis and loss of independence can occur if spinal cord injuries are left untreated. Diagnosis and treatment as soon as possible can help prevent long-term effects.
Who is a candidate for Spinal Cord Injury treatment?
At the Jey Institute, patients seeking spinal cord injury treatment in New Jersey are evaluated for both acute and chronic spinal cord injuries. Some patients require urgent surgical evaluation while others seek care after persistent symptoms or incomplete recovery following previous treatment.
Candidates for treatment may include:
- Patients with imaging-confirmed spinal cord injury
- Patients with ongoing spinal cord compression
- Individuals experiencing neurological deficits after trauma
- Patients seeking specialist consultation or second opinions
- Individuals with persistent symptoms despite previous treatment
Why choose the Jey Institute for Spinal Cord Injury treatment in New Jersey?
The Jey Institute cares for patients with complicated spine and neurological conditions, such as traumatic injuries to the spinal cord. Through advanced imaging, extensive experience with surgical treatment, and personalized attention to each patient’s needs, we provide effective care for some of the most challenging conditions that affect the spine.
We know that a spinal cord injury affects more than just your spine. That’s why we take the time to create personalized plans of care based on your symptoms, goals, and imaging.
- Specialized expertise in spinal cord and neurological disorders
- Advanced diagnostic imaging and evaluation
- Minimally invasive and complex spine surgery capabilities
- Individualized treatment planning
- Comprehensive rehabilitation coordination
- Commitment to maximizing long-term function and quality of life
Dr. Shiveindra Jeyamohan, MD.
Chief Surgeon & Medical Director
Meet the clinical lead
Why choose the Jey Institute for Spinal Cord Injury treatment in New Jersey?
The Jey Institute cares for patients with complicated spine and neurological conditions, such as traumatic injuries to the spinal cord.
Through advanced imaging, extensive experience with surgical treatment, and personalized attention to each patient’s needs, we provide effective care for some of the most challenging conditions that affect the spine.
We know that a spinal cord injury affects more than just your spine. That’s why we take the time to create personalized plans of care based on your symptoms, goals, and imaging.
- 5,000+ Patients served
- 3,000+ Surgeries performed
- 99% Same-day recovery rate
Frequently asked questions about Spinal Cord Injury
Are there new treatments on the horizon?
Yes. Research involving spinal cord injuries continues to advance rapidly. New therapies aimed at improving neurological recovery and restoring function remain one of the fastest-growing areas in spine surgery and neuroscience.
How much function can I expect to recover after a Spinal Cord Injury?
The extent of recovery depends on the severity of the injury and extent of damage to the spinal cord. Additionally, patients with incomplete injury have the potential to recover more than patients with complete injuries. Recovery can take place for months to years following injury.
What does rehabilitation look like?
Rehabilitation after a spinal cord injury often includes inpatient and outpatient physical therapy, occupational therapy, mobility training, adaptive equipment, and structured home exercise programs designed to maximize independence and function.
How urgent is surgical intervention?
Spinal cord injuries are considered a surgical emergency. When ongoing compression or instability exists, prompt intervention may help prevent additional neurological damage and improve outcomes.
What’s the difference between complete and incomplete injury?
Complete injury causes a total loss of motor and sensory function below the level of injury. Incomplete means some neurological function is retained below the level of injury. Patients who have an incomplete injury have more potential to recover function with treatment and rehab.
Areas we serve in New Jersey
Hamilton, NJ
311 Whitehorse Ave.,
Hamilton Township, NJ
08610
Little Silver, NJ
200 White Road,
Little Silver, NJ 07739
Suite 111
Clifton, NJ
735 Clifton Avenue
Clifton NJ 07013
Dover, NJ
50 Nelson St.
Dover NJ 07801
East Brunswick, NJ
180 Tices Lane
East Brunswick NJ 08816
Suite 106
West Orange, NJ
414 Eagle Rock Ave,
West Orange, NJ 07052
Suite 304
Real reviews from our past patients
“Dr. J was attentive, listened to me and showed that he truly cared about my problems. He explained in details and offered me expert opinions. I love that he treats patients as individual and truly listens.”
Bernice
“After being unhappy with my spine surgeon, I found Dr. J. He explained exactly what was wrong with me, made a game plan, and had his team help out in scheduling. Once he found where the problem was, he got me scheduled, did excellent work, and I was home in a couple days. The scar is WAY SMALLER than my original surgery, which wasn’t even as big! He really is a minimally invasive expert and my recovery was way faster!”
Eddie
“I’ve had 5 different operations on my back in the last decade. Dr. J did number 6. His scar was the smallest, least amount of pain, and for the first time after any surgery I went home the same day. Maybe I’m just getting used to surgery lol!”
Steve W.
“No doubt in my mind Dr. Jeyamohan saved my life.”
Steven C.
“Thank You from the bottom of my heart for getting my active lifestyle back- I’m so happy with the outcome- thank u for being honest about the pain I would experience in the first month of recovery- your bedside manner in the hospital was excellent – your PA Andrea was amazing as well- I would recommend Evergreen Health to everyone and my team of docs was super- Thank U Dr J, Dr Nora, and Dr Ting!! Feels amazing to be standing tall with great posture everyday I’m getting stronger”
Michelle G.
“Kind and thorough. Top quality and felt safe throughout.”
Verified Patient
“Took the time to explain my pictures and what was wrong with me, and gave me many different options. Answered every single one of my questions and even a few over the phone. Went home the same day and on my way to a full recovery! Office is clean, bright, and everyone was super friendly and helpful! Andrea his assistant has been a treasure!”
Verified Patient
“Incredibly thorough, took his time to explain and answer all my questions. Gave me plenty of options. I probably visited with him three or four times before committing to surgery, never once did he rush me. Saw me every day in the hospital, walked with me. I’m so thankful I had the surgery with him. I saw two other spine surgeons who didn’t even want to take on such a complicated operation but Dr. J did incredible work and I’m back to walking on my own! I don’t even need a cane anymore”
Verified Patient
“First, the office was not good. Getting an appointment, scheduling, paperwork, was a nightmare. But once I got in to see Dr. J, it was smooth sailing! He got me the tests I needed, talked to me about treatment options, and helped me set up an injection. We talked about different surgeries, got me scheduled, did great work, and made sure I had follow-up appointments. I’m back to the farm ahead of schedule and back to work. If only I could have got in to see him sooner.”
Verified Patient
“I have to be honest here and own up. I saw three different spine surgeons and was worried “Dr. Jey” as everyone calls him was too young. I went with someone else who fused three levels in my back. I did horribly with lots of complications. After getting over all my issues, I swallowed my pride and went back to Dr. Jey. He never made me feel bad and graciously took a look at everything, ordered more tests, and showed me what was going on. Bad news, he says he couldn’t undo the fusion. Worse news, it’s now an even bigger operation to fix, and he was honest and said the best we can do is try to get me…”
Verified Patient
“My experience was excellent. Dr J is very knowledgeable explained everything in a simplified way that made me very comfortable. His staff went above and beyond answer any question I had No matter what the question was. I can’t thank Dr J and his staff enough For helping me get through this spine Injury.”
Jim D.
“I am a 45 year old male who led an active lifestyle when a back injury changed my life. I went from working and being active with my 4 children to suddenly I couldn’t make any movement without excruciating pain. The type of pain I can’t even explain in words. I went to see Dr. Jeyamohan on the referral of my sister who is a physician as well. When I walked into the office the team had already looked at my MRI and explained to me in honest terms that we had an emergency situation on our hands and that delaying surgery was simply not an option. Dr. Jeyamohan Made calls and got me scheduled for emergency back surgery right…”
Eric F.