Question

How damage to the lower portion of the spinal cord affect defecation?

Answer 1

With the injury of the spinal cord, damage can occur to the nerves that help in defecation. Its injury can cause the failure of the ability to feel when the rectum is full. The anal sphincter muscle remains tight and the bowel movements occur on the reflex basis. This means when the rectum is full, the defecation reflex will occur, emptying the bowel. This type of bowel movement is called an upper motor neuron or reflexive bowel