Spinal cord injuries are extremely serious. When an individual sustains one, it can profoundly impact their physical, emotional and psychological well-being. In many cases, while rehabilitation is an option, they can never fully recover. People often endure these injuries in severe accidents, falls or medical negligence.
The physical impact
The spinal cord is a vital part of the central nervous system. It is responsible for sending signals back and forth between the brain and the rest of the body. Injuring this area is dangerous and, depending on the severity and location of the injury, can lead to a range of physical impairments or death.
What can potentially happen?
If you sustain a spinal cord injury, you could face:
- Paralysis, either partial or complete.
- Loss of sensation below the level of injury.
- Issues with bladder and bowel control, sexual dysfunction and respiratory difficulties.
Emotional and psychological effects
In addition to the physical trauma, spinal cord injuries can cause severe emotional and psychological trauma. Patients typically feel a range of emotions, including grief, anger and frustration, as they come to terms with their new reality. They can also feel like no one understands them.
If a person who suffers a spinal cord injury is unable to live independently or take care of themselves after the accident, it can lead to feelings of isolation and depression.
But what about rehabilitation?
Rehabilitation can certainly help a person regain as much function as possible. However, it is usually not known right away how much function the individual will be able to regain.
In most cases, it takes time, physical and occupational therapy and psychological support to help a person regain as much function as possible. They may also need assistive devices, which can be both helpful for some and depressing for others.
The aftermath of an accident or negligent act that left a person with a spinal cord injury is filled with physical, emotional and psychological challenges. A lot is also unknown in the immediate stages after the incident happens. It is essential to seek legal guidance, as you may be entitled to significant compensation for such severe injuries.