Spinal Cord Injury

Overview

A spinal cord injury can result in partial or complete loss of movement, sensation and control of bodily functions below the level of injury. Depending on the individual injury severity and location, individuals may face temporary or permanent changes to their stability, hand function, loss of lower limb control and difficulty with transfers and balance. The higher the injury occurs on the spine the more significant the impact, with everything below the injury potentially affected.

Toileting independence can be significantly affected, particularly where fine motor control and lower body strength is limited, but also when the person loses the ability to control or be aware of their bladder or bowel movements.

Data from the organisation, Spinal Research, estimates the prevalence of spinal cord injuries in the UK to be in the region of 105,000 individuals. It is estimated that every two hours someone is paralysed by a spinal cord injury in the UK.

Functional Toileting Challenges:

Reduced motor control and balance: Difficulty maintaining a stable seated position on standard toilets. The person may be using a mobile device, such as a shower chair or commode to position effectively over the toilet

Limited trunk and limb strength: Increased dependence on postural supports or assistance for safe transfers

Compromised hand function or dexterity: Challenges operating standard flush controls or sufficient strength and control for effective wiping

Fatigue and endurance issues: Transferring, cleaning and repositioning can be physically exhausting

Impacts:

Incomplete hygiene tasks

Limited reach or dexterity may lead to hygiene issues increasing the risk of skin problems if wiping becomes difficult

Loss of dignity

Reduced self-esteem when unable to toilet independently and rely on carer for intimate tasks can affect psychological wellbeing

Reduced confidence

Anxiety over accessibility, slips or bowel management can deter engagement in daily activities leading to social isolation and carer strain

Safety concerns

Conventional toilets and bathrooms rarely provide sufficient support for transfers or safe use with mobility aids

How our products help those with Spinal Cord Injuries

FEATURE	WHY IT HELPS
Palma Vita Wash and Dry Toilet	Provides improved hygiene, comfort and independence with integrated washing and drying functions, reducing the need for assistance and supporting accessibility.
Integrated fold-down support arms	Improves physical safety when using the toilet, especially if mobility impaired
Adult soft seat	Provide additional comfort and reduce the pain of sitting for long periods. The Closomat can be supplied with a choice of soft feel seats that are navy blue in colour
Touch sensitive hand/foot switch	Makes it easier to recognise and use without complex instructions
(Infrared) Remote control	Enables carers to initiate wash and dry function discreetly if individual can no longer manage
Douche (standard)	Supports personal hygiene and cleanliness, helping users maintain independence and comfort during toileting.

Closomat wash and dry toilet in a modern bathroom with a teal wall

Priority specification

Foundational

The Closomat Palma Vita with easy-use controls with a touch sensitive hand/foot switch

Moderate

Integrated fold-down support arms for those who can push safely into a stand and soft seat for added comfort

Complex

Carer controls if the person is unable to use themselves, which maximises dignity in care.

Sample specification wording

The individual has a spinal cord injury resulting in the loss of lower limb function and limited hand dexterity on both sides. These impairments create difficulties with transfers and carrying out personal hygiene tasks independently.

A Closomat Palma Vita Wash and Dry Toilet with a touch-sensitive hand/foot switch provides automatic washing and drying, eliminating the need for manual wiping and supporting improved hygiene, independence and reduced reliance on carers. The accessible controls accommodate limited hand function and reach, enabling easier operation.

Where the individual has sufficient upper body strength to push safely into a standing position, integrated fold-down support arms can provide additional stability during transfers, while an optional soft seat offers greater comfort and support during toileting.

For individuals with more complex needs who are unable to operate the toilet independently, carer-operated controls can be incorporated, enabling assistance with washing and drying while maintaining privacy and dignity.

Together, the Closomat Palma Vita and its adaptable accessories provide a long-term solution that can accommodate changing functional abilities and care requirements, supporting comfort, safety and dignity for individuals living with spinal cord injury.

Final checks

Verify control placement for user’s reach and dexterity

Check space requirements for positioning of mobility aids or wheelchair if needed

Regularly review seat height, arm supports and settings as conditions change

Download the specification

Wash and dry toilet specification for spinal cord injury, with the recommended features and clinical justification.

Download

Spinal Cord Injuries