Table 4. Illustrative examples of motor level changes that could occur after cervical sensorimotor complete (AIS-A) SCI (based on ISNCSCI definition of motor level).

Note: Motor level (above shaded squares) is defined as the most caudal spinal segment, as indexed by the key muscle group for that segment, having a muscle strength score of at least 3 (contraction against gravity alone) while all of the more rostral key muscles are normal (5/5). In these examples, initial sensory level is constant at C5 (table is modified from Steeves et al. Spinal Cord. 2011;49:257-265). ISNCSCI = International Standards Neurological Classification of Spinal Cord Injury.