Spine & Spinal Cord Injury

Spine and spinal cord injuries refer to damage affecting the vertebral column (spine) and the spinal cord itself. Spine injuries may involve fractures, disc herniation, or nerve root compression, while spinal cord injuries disrupt communication between the brain and body, potentially causing paralysis, sensory loss, or autonomic dysfunction below the level of injury.

Dr. Jennifer James specializes in the diagnosis, treatment, and evaluation of spine disorders and spinal cord injuries. With more than 30 years of clinical experience and dual board certifications in Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation and Spinal Cord Injury Medicine, she provides highly detailed, evidence‑based assessments for both clinical care and medicolegal review. Her areas of expertise include:

• Cervical and lumbar spine injuries

• Acute and chronic spine conditions

• Radiculopathy and nerve root compression

• Multi-level and overlapping spine conditions

• Partial and complete spinal cord injuries

• Post-traumatic and degenerative spinal pathology

• Functional outcomes and long-term complications

She provides comprehensive spinal cord injury evaluations that address:

• Neurologic level and completeness of injury, using the International Standards for Neurological Classification of Spinal Cord Injury and the American Spinal Injury Association (ASIA) examination

• Lifespan calculation

• Expected functional outcomes, including mobility, self‑care, and independence potential

• Pressure ulcer prevention, staging, causation, and severity

• Neurogenic bladder and bowel management

• Life care planning for long‑term medical and functional needs

Her evaluations integrate imaging, physical examination, functional assessment, and current evidence‑based clinical guidelines and scientific literature.