This useful reference, composed of articles written by trained spinal cord injury nurse practitioners, offers valuable insights and practical information on the rehabilitation period and its critical aspects. The contributors address such issues as the prevention and treatment of pressure areas, the spasticity of limbs, and medical conditions such as metabolic upsets, respiratory and urinary disorders, sexual dysfunctions, and disturbances of the autonomic nervous system, complications commonly associated with spinal cord injuries.The book deals with the incidence, epidemiology, etiology, and pathophysiology of each problem discussed. Therapeutic plans, management regimens, and educational programs are discussed in detail with specific attention paid to psychosocial ramifications. Also provided is information on the common conditions that threaten the rapid, successful recovery of the average spinal cord-injured patient. As both reference and teaching tool, this volume will prove indispensable to victims and their families as well as to medical professionals.