Living with a spinal cord injury

Spinal cord injuries are among the most devastating life events an individual can experience, with far-reaching implications on mobility, sensory function, and bodily control.

Depending on the location and severity of the injury, patients may experience a range of symptoms. Symptoms can range from partial loss of motor functions to complete paralysis. One common challenge is the loss of control over bladder and bowel functions, which requires specialized care for spinal cord injuries. 

Picture of five medical professionals wearing white lab coats. [ Provider referral forms ]

Challenges for patients

Loss of bladder control is often a significant concern for those with spinal cord injuries. The condition, known as neurogenic bladder, leads to a lack of voluntary control over urination, which can result in urinary incontinence or urinary retention. This can severely impact an individual's quality of life, social interactions, and even mental well-being. Additionally, there's an increased risk of urinary tract infections, which can have more serious implications for individuals with spinal cord injury and compromised mobility.
Picture of two younger patients and their parents participating in wheelchair lacrosse, in yellow wheelchairs, holding lacrosse sticks
Get Involved With Sports
Picture of a patient in a dark sweatshirt, smiling, playing a piano at home.
Learn a new Instrument
RA Fischer Co. provides specialized solutions aimed at effectively managing neurogenic bladder, enhancing your overall quality of life.

solution recommendations

When it comes to managing bladder issues associated with spinal cord injuries, catheters play a crucial role. Intermittent catheterization is commonly recommended to assist with scheduled voiding, thus minimizing the risks of incontinence and urinary tract infections.

Hydrophilic or pre-lubricated catheters like the GentleCath Glide can make the self-catheterization process easier and more comfortable. For those unable to perform self-catheterization, indwelling catheters or even more advanced options like suprapubic catheters may be considered.

Picture of a box of GentleCath Air catheters from RA Fischer next to five catheters in their packets and a copy of the manual for GentleCath Air for Men. Box reads "GC Air." There are 5 of the catheters in front of the box and a manual next to them. The manual reads "GentleCath - Air for men with FeelClean technology - ConvaTec"

UROLOGY SUPPLIES

Reach out today

Contact one of our Treatment Specialists today to answer any and all of your questions about urology supplies.

resources

BLOG ARTICLES

Close-up photograph product image of one of RA Fischer Co.'s catheters for urological care. It has a green gripper sleeve.
Blog

Straight Tip vs Coude Tip Catheters: Which Is the Right Choice for You?

Millions of people live with urinary incontinence and/or retention issues. To help alleviate symptoms, urologists often prescribe intermittent catheters. Patients will traditionally begin with a straight tip catheter. However, for those who may experience discomfort or regular urinary tract infections, a curved, or coude tip catheter may be the choice for you.

Read More »