How can a spinal cord injury affect mobility?

A spinal cord injury can significantly impact mobility by potentially leading to complete or incomplete paralysis. Complete paralysis results in a total loss of function and sensation below the level of the injury, while incomplete paralysis means that some function or sensation may remain. The extent of mobility impairment will vary depending on the location and severity of the injury. For instance, injuries higher up on the spinal cord can affect all limbs, while lower injuries may only impact the legs.

This option accurately reflects the serious consequences of spinal cord injuries, as they disrupt the neural pathways responsible for conveying motor commands and sensory information between the brain and the body. As a result, individuals may experience challenges in coordination, balance, and performing voluntary movements, significantly affecting their ability to move and function in daily life. The other options do not accurately represent the typical effects of spinal cord injuries, as they underestimate the severity or suggest outcomes that are not commonly associated with such injuries.