Complications from a Spinal Cord Injury
Spinal cord injuries can lead to serious complications that affect nearly every aspect of life, from physical function to emotional well-being. Some complications appear right away, while others develop over time, making long-term medical care essential.
Common short-term and long-term effects include:
- Paralysis, such as paraplegia or quadriplegia
- Chronic nerve pain that interferes with daily activities
- Bladder and bowel dysfunction, including incontinence
- Loss of coordination or mobility, even with incomplete injuries
- Muscle spasms and involuntary movements
- Increased risk of infections or blood clots due to reduced mobility
- Emotional trauma, such as depression, anxiety, or PTSD
If someone else’s negligence caused your injury, you shouldn’t have to bear these burdens alone. Compensation may help cover ongoing care, therapy, and lost quality of life.
Diagnosing a Spinal Injury
Proper diagnosis is necessary after any back or spinal injury, especially because symptoms may not appear immediately. Some damage can take hours or even days to reveal itself, making early medical testing essential for your safety and your case.
Common diagnostic tools include:
- X-rays, MRIs, and CT scans: These imaging tests help identify fractures, disc problems, and nerve damage.
- Physical exams: Doctors check reflexes, strength, and sensation to assess spinal cord function.
- Neurologist evaluations: Specialists may be brought in to assess long-term nerve and motor impairment.
If you’ve experienced any kind of trauma to your back or neck, seek medical attention right away, even if you feel okay at first.
Treatment Options for Spinal Injuries
Spinal injuries often require immediate and ongoing care. The treatment plan depends on the severity and location of the injury, as well as how quickly you receive medical attention.
Common treatments for spinal injuries include:
- Emergency care: Stabilizing the spine to prevent further damage is the first priority.
- Surgery: Procedures like spinal fusion or decompression may be necessary to repair damage or relieve pressure on nerves.
- Medications: Anti-inflammatory drugs and pain relievers help manage symptoms during recovery.
- Physical therapy and mobility aids: Rehab helps patients regain movement, strength, and independence.
- Long-term rehabilitation or home care: For more severe injuries, long-term support may be needed to manage daily tasks.
Because every spinal injury is different, treatment needs can vary dramatically from one patient to the next. A fair settlement should reflect the full scope of your recovery needs, now and in the future.
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