Certified Rehabilitation Counselor Practice

What level of spinal cord injury allows for some gross movement of the upper extremities?

1. C1

2. C3

3. C5

4. C7

The correct answer is: C5

The level of spinal cord injury that allows for some gross movement of the upper extremities is at the C5 level. At this level, individuals retain the ability to move their arms and maintain some degree of shoulder movement, which includes bending their elbows. These capabilities are essential for basic functions such as reaching or lifting objects. In contrast, injuries at levels C1 and C3 do not allow for such movements, as they typically result in higher levels of paralysis. At these levels, individuals may retain some neck movement but lack the ability to use their arms or hands effectively. A C7 injury also allows for more functional movements, including wrist extension and improved hand function, but C5 is where the gross movement capacity of the upper extremities is first possible.