Our spinal cords weave millions of neurons into a complex cable carrying messages from the furthest extremities of our bodies to the perceptual centers of our brains. These messages enable us to experience both the world around us and the world within the confines of our skins. At the same tine, this marvelous cable flashes messages from the command centers of our brains to our muscles – messages that can move us instantly.

This complex living cable requires constant flushing in order to operate properly. Cerebrospinal fluid washes from the caverns of the brain into a channel at the center of the spinal cord, carrying away any substances that might impede transmissions.

As with any irrigation or drainage system, the channels may become blocked. I know firsthand – backed-up fluid has inflated the channel inside my spinal column to three times its original diameter. Doctors of neurology call this bubble-like cavity at the top of my spine a syrinx (SEER-inks). They call my condition syringomyelia (sir-ingo-my-EEL-ya). Consequently, impulses from my legs to my brain, and from my brain to my walking muscles, take more time to reach their destinations than they did before the disorder set in.

This condition limits my walking speed to about one mile per hour. I consider steps before moving. My balance can be tenuous, so I carry a cane. The core muscles of my body tend to “go offline” if I sit without moving for more than five minutes. I must call these muscles into consciousness before attempting to rise.

Living with syringomyelia approximates the challenge that runners face as they train for marathons – we work under the guidance of skilled trainers, and must commit to a regular routine of exercise that maximizes our endurance and performance.  I look to physical therapists skilled in neuro-rehabilitation to act as my trainers. My therapists have taught me to call individual muscles into consciousness, then to work them gently.

As you might expect, my muscles grow stronger with each repetition. I welcome strength, but notice also that my steps seem smoother: the neural pathways connecting my spinal column to my legs have reawakened and become more efficient. Perhaps you have noticed a similar effect when learning a new skill. We also say that “practice makes perfect.”