The following information is used as a general guideline for physical abilities with varying levels of spinal cord injury.
C4: Can breathe on own. Good neck movement. Dependent in all physical and self-care activities. May operate a sip/puff wheelchair. Needs Passive Range of Motion (PROM). Can instruct attendant in all areas of care. Can use electronics/computer for many office and household activities.

C5: Moves shoulder blades. Has shoulder flexion & abduction. Can flex elbow. Can push WC with decreased endurance. Can use power WC well. Can feed self. Can manage sink level hygiene. Can drive a car with hand controls.

C6: Has shoulder stabilization. Has wrist extension and Tenodesis. May be independent in some transfers. Can push WC well. Better bed mobility. Can participate in some WC sports.

C7: Can extend elbows. Has some hand motion with weak finger movement. Independent in bathroom transfers and bed mobility. May be totally independent in self-care. Can place WC into car. Can assist with floor to WC transfer.

C8: Better wrist extention. Has wrist and finger flexion. Better hand function and better ability to do all the above mentioned activities.