Question
Hello,

About two months ago, I flipped my ATV on top of me. I suffered 7 broken ribs and three fractures in my neck (C1, C7 and T1). When I went for a checkup on my neck, the doctor noticed that my reflexes in my left arm were very sensitive. He said that I probably have a bruise on my spinal cord. What does that actually mean? I didn't think to ask this question to the doctor. He has scheduled an MRI for two weeks, so I didn't think much about it at the time. Thanks.  

Answer
Dear Allison,

A spinal contusion (bruise) causes bleeding to occur in the spinal column. The pressure the bleeding puts on the spinal cord can kill neurons.

found this information on the following website;
http://www.hmc.psu.edu/healthinfo/s/spinalcordinjury.htm
===================================================================
In contusion injuries, a cavity, or hole, often forms in the center of the spinal cord. Myelinated axons typically survive in a ring along the inside edge of the cord. Some axons may survive in the center cavity, but they usually lose their myelin covering. This demyelination greatly slows the speed of nerve transmission. Slowing of nerve impulses can be measured by a diagnostic technique called transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS).

Use of imaging methods such as computed tomography (CT) scans to visualize fractures and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to image contusions, disc herniation, and other damage can help define the appropriate treatment for a particular patient.

found this information on the following website;
http://www.ninds.nih.gov/news_and_events/proceedings/sci_report.htm#Anatomical
====================================================================
Dear Allison, I hope this helps. After your MRI the doctor will have a better idea of whats going on and thus have some ideas on any treatment/s you might need. I will keep good thoughts for your quick recovery from whatever your doctor decides is the best treatment for your situation.
Sincerely, Ken