Question
My son had a accident October 10th 2008. He broke his neck at C4 and was fused from C3to C6. He is doing well and had actually been very lucky and he has regained neck, shoulder , trunk movement and his complete left hand. He can move his legs and we are hoping for a complete recovery.
About a week ago he started being able to urineate on his own on occasion. He has to really concentrate and it doesn't happen all the time. Now when we cath we are not getting much even when he hasn't went in awhile. How should we be handling this? He has only been home from Rehab for a week and a half and he has had a UTI pretty much for the last two months. Any help would be appreciated.


Answer
Dear Rita, I am happy he is getting so much return. As for his bladder problem I would suggest he talk to his neurologist. They do have medications for relaxing the bladder. Although I don't know if he would want to mess around with his ability to urinate on his own and taking medications would quite likely effect that. As for the UTI's, I would suggest he drink as much fluids as he can to keep it flushed out. And cranberry juice is also good for preventing urinary infections. I hope this helps. Sincerely, Ken