ASIA-IMPAIRMENT LEVELS

SUMMARY

1. Sensory level: most caudal level of normal pin-prick & light-touch sensation, providing the level above is normal.

2. Motor level: lowest key muscle function that is ≥ 3, providing the level above is 5.

3. Neurological level: lowest level of intact sensation & anti-gravity muscle function (motor power ≥ 3), provided they are normal above (motor power 5).

4. Complete cord injury: no voluntary anal contraction, no S4-5 sensation & no deep anal pressure.

5. In the case of C2-C4, T2-L1, S2-S5: the sensory level defines the motor level and ultimately the neurological level.

Reference(s)

Cifu, D.X. (2020). Braddom’s physical medicine and rehabilitation. Elsevier. Get it on Amazon.
Cuccurullo, S. (2019). Physical medicine and rehabilitation board review. New York: Demosmedical. Get it on Amazon.
O’Young, B., Young, M.A. and Stiens, S.A. (2008). Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Secrets. Mosby. Get it on Amazon.