What are the treatments for the injury?

Treatment depends on the type and severity of the injury. It varies from observation to nerve repair to grafting. Regardless of severity, physical therapy is important. Exercising can help maintain range of motion of the joints, stretch shortened muscles, and strengthen the healthy muscles. If nerve roots have been torn, a nerve grafting operation can be performed. However, if a nerve root is separated from the spinal cord, nerve repair will not restore function. A muscle or tendon transfer operation can provide an alternative structure to perform a specific movement in the case of paralysis.

What are the side effects of the treatments?

As with any operation, surgery can lead to complications such as infection or failure to improve function.

What happens after treatment for the injury?

Nerve grafting generally has good results as long as a nerve root was not separated from the spinal cord. With repair of the nerves of the upper body, 75% of persons will regain bending of the elbow. If a partial injury has not shown signs of improvement within 9 months of injury, the chance of a good recovery is poor.