Abstract
This study of 40 paraplegics concerns their reactions to their neurological handicap immediately after their trauma. It shows that the body image is not spontaneously modified after the disconnection of the sensory paths. The awareness of the loss of motor function is more rapidly realised and this takes an important part in the subsequent somatognostic representation.
The visual aspect being preserved, the paraplegic's body image generally remains intact. This statement tends to lead to philosophical discussions concerning the body and the mind. However, it is also most important concerning the participation and efforts necessary during the period of rehabilitation.
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References
NoëL, G & Heilporn, A (1966). Considérations sémiologiques relatives aux paraplégies traumatiques. Acta neurol. belg., 66, 873.
Sivadon, P & Gantheret, F (1965). La rééducation corporelle des fonctions mentales. Les Editions sociales françaises.
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Heilporn, A., Noel, G. Reflections on the consciousness of disability and somatognosis in cases of acute spinal injuries. Spinal Cord 6, 122–127 (1968). https://doi.org/10.1038/sc.1968.22
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1038/sc.1968.22
