Certified Rehabilitation Counselor Practice

What is an expected outcome for individuals with a spinal cord injury at L1-L5?

1. Complete dependency on caregivers

2. Difficulty with fine motor skills

3. Walking long distances with assistive devices

4. Paralysis of the lower extremities

The correct answer is: Walking long distances with assistive devices

Individuals with a spinal cord injury at the L1-L5 level typically retain some degree of mobility and functionality, making the ability to walk with assistive devices a key expected outcome. The L1-L5 vertebrae correspond to injuries that predominantly affect the lower back region, which can result in varying degrees of lower limb mobility. Patients with such injuries often have intact upper body strength and may maintain some core stability, allowing them to utilize assistive devices, such as canes, walkers, or leg braces, to facilitate ambulation. The extent of walking capability can range widely depending on the severity of the injury and individual rehabilitation progress, but many individuals can achieve the ability to walk short to moderate distances with assistance. In contrast, complete dependency on caregivers, difficulty with fine motor skills, and paralysis of the lower extremities are generally more associated with higher level spinal cord injuries, such as those occurring at the cervical level. Thus, the expected outcome for individuals at the L1-L5 level focuses on the potential for ambulation with help, highlighting the importance of rehabilitation in promoting independence.