Changes to the Brain in Patients With Spinal Cord Compression Identified

Research being conducted at the University of Western Ontario is now looking beyond spinal cord injuries in patients to better understand what is happening in the brain. Spinal degeneration can lead to compression of the spinal cord, which can cause problems with dexterity, numbness in the hands, walking ability, and bladder and bowel function. However, researchers have now found that spinal cord compression can also cause changes in the motor cortex of the brain. They are looking not only at the mechanisms of the spinal cord, but also what is happening in the brain and how it responds to injury in the spinal cord. In addition, they are examining whether or not there is any plasticity or ability in the brain to compensate for injury.

Link to the article:http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2011/12/111215232425.htm