Spinal cord injuries (SCIs) can occur as a result of a variety of incidents, including car crashes and slip-and-fall accidents. There are many things that can happen when a person has an SCI. One of these is paralysis, which can affect one or more limbs or digits.
Paralysis is a life-changing event that impacts the physical abilities of the victim and also their emotional and mental well-being. The spinal cord is a crucial part of the central nervous system that facilitates communication between the brain and the rest of the body. When it’s damaged, this communication is disrupted, which leads to partial or complete paralysis depending on the injury’s severity and location.
Immediate and long-term effects
Immediately following an SCI, emergency medical intervention is critical to assess the injury’s extent and stabilize the patient. The immediate focus from the medical team is on preventing further damage to the spinal cord and managing any other life-threatening injuries.
Long-term effects of an SCI can include loss of muscle function, sensation and reflexes below the injury site. More severe outcomes like paraplegia or quadriplegia, requiring comprehensive rehabilitation and ongoing care, are also possible.
Rehabilitation and adaptation
Rehabilitation following an SCI is a multifaceted process that aims to help the individual regain as much independence as possible. Physical therapy, occupational therapy and counseling are integral parts of rehabilitation. Emphasis is placed on strengthening unaffected muscles, learning adaptive techniques for daily activities, and addressing the emotional and psychological impacts of the injury.
The costs associated with living with a SCI, especially when paralysis is involved, can be considerable. Victims may opt to pursue a compensation claim to help cover the associated expenses if their harm was caused by another’s negligence. Damages can cover everything from medical care costs and lost wages to the expense of retrofitting a home and vehicle to meet a victim’s mobility accommodations.
Working with a legal representative who can help to get a case set up and moving forward can benefit victims because these cases are time-sensitive and complex in nature.