Starting to use a catheter can make ordinary parts of your day suddenly feel unfamiliar. You may find yourself thinking about things you never had to plan before: when and where you’ll catheterize, what supplies you need to bring, whether you’re doing everything correctly, and what happens when you’re away from home.
Many people with a spinal cord injury enjoy adaptive water sports and aquatic activities. There are many reasons for this—connecting with nature, the social aspect, and enjoying something new. Buoyancy is particularly enjoyable for those activities where you are in the water, such as swimming, scuba diving, and snorkeling. Propelling yourself forward in or under the water can provide a sense of newfound freedom and mobility that you can’t get on land.
When intermittent catheterization is part of your daily routine, questions are common and expected.
Maybe you've wondered whether you're catheterizing too often or too little. Perhaps you experience a time when catheterization felt uncomfortable, or you've noticed something different and wondered whether it's normal. Even people who have been self-catheterizing for years can have questions as their routines, health, or lifestyles change.
And chances are, if you've wondered about something, other catheter users have wondered about it too.
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Returning to work after a spinal cord injury may require that you and your employer make some workplace accommodations to stay safe, be comfortable, and make it easier for you to get things done.
Fortunately, there are many innovations and assistive technologies that help you create a great working environment. Many assistive technology products and adaptive equipment cost very little, so it is in your employer’s best interest to make these minor workspace accommodations.
A new school year comes with plenty to think about. And if your child uses intermittent catheters, you may have a few extra questions. Will they have enough time and privacy? What happens if they need help? Will they remember their schedule when the school day gets busy?
A little planning can go a long way. By practicing your child’s routine, communicating with school staff, and planning for unexpected situations, you can help your child feel comfortable, prepared, and confident.
Once you’ve initially recovered from your spinal cord injury and have a daily routine, you may want to start an exercise program to keep you healthy and engaged while also managing your weight. Before embarking on any new activity, it’s always a good idea to have a clear idea of the benefits so that you can be motivated and energized.
It may surprise you to know that there are many different options for you to exercise and stay fit. Whether you want to compete in an individual or team sport as part of a league or local club, or if you’re looking for something to keep you physically active and manage your weight, there’s plenty to choose from.
Tennis is one of the fastest-growing wheelchair sports in the world. This court sport offers those with a spinal cord injury the opportunity to play in the same way and with the same rules as any tennis player, with one notable exception—the ball is allowed to bounce twice. This provides greater opportunities to make more shots, stay in longer rallies, and just have more fun!
There are unique obstacles to exercise after a spinal cord injury, but it's vital to stay active. With a little motivation, staying fit can be easier and more fun than you may think.
Facing long-term catheter use can feel overwhelming for many. Suddenly, everyday routines are interrupted, and you may find yourself wrestling with anxiety, fear, or even grief over the changes to your body and lifestyle.
