Thermo-regulation

Thermo-regulation or temperature regulation may be affected after a spinal cord injury (SCI). Body temperature is controlled by the autonomic nervous system via hypothalamic regulation. In SCI, there is generally reduced sensory input regarding temperature received from below the level of injury. People with SCI (at the level of T6 and above) also lack the descending sympathetic control to respond appropriately to environmental changes in temperature. As a result, people with SCI may experience high or low body temperatures. The higher the level of SCI, the greater the body surface area that is affected, which has a notable impact on temperature control.   

Temperature dysregulation can occur acutely following SCI and can persist for a lifetime. People with higher levels of injury and complete injuries are more likely to experience issues. 

There are a several strategies available to manage temperature dysregulation