Spinal cord injuries can be devastating for the patient and his or her family members. After experiencing a spinal cord injury, patients typically have many questions. Most of us are not familiar with the ins and outs of coping with a spinal cord injury. Here are five things that everyone should know about spinal cord injuries.
1. The Effects of Spinal Cord Injuries Vary
Every spinal cord injury is unique. The symptoms and limitations faced by spinal cord patients vary greatly. However, in most cases, a person will be affected based on the location of their spinal cord injury. For example, if their spinal cord becomes injured in the middle of their back, they may become paralyzed from that location downward. Some spinal cord injury patients can recover some or all of their movement. Others never regain the feeling in their affected limbs.
2. There are Multiple Causes of Spinal Cord Injuries
Most people associate spinal cord injury with a severe car accident. While car accidents are a common cause of spinal cord injuries, Sports accidents, recreational accidents, and many other types of accidents can cause spinal cord injuries. Workplace injuries are common causes of spinal cord injuries, especially among construction workers.
3. A Range of Medical Treatment is Necessary
Many spinal cord injury patients require intensive medical treatment right after their accident. They may need surgery to place rods in their spine and spend a few months in an intensive rehabilitation center. After patients are allowed to return home, they may require ongoing medical care, especially if they are completely or partially paralyzed. Doctors treat any conditions that may arise, such as bladder infections and difficulties regulating blood pressure and temperature.
4. Patients May Need Special Equipment and to Modify Their House
Patients who become partially or entirely paralyzed need adaptive equipment such as wheelchairs. They may need to modify their homes to use a wheelchair to get through doors in hallways. Additionally, they may need to alter their bathroom and bedrooms to ensure that their home is functional for them. Patients may need to purchase a vehicle that can accommodate their wheelchair and enable them to drive. Sometimes they can modify their existing car, or they may need to purchase a new vehicle.
5. A Range of Therapies May be Needed
Patients who sustained spinal cord injuries need medical treatment and rehabilitation services. They also benefit from various types of therapy, such as occupational, respiratory, and physical therapy. These therapies help patients live their lives to the fullest.
Contact a Missouri Spinal Cord Injury Lawyer Today
If you sustained a spinal cord injury due to someone else’s negligence or recklessness, you might be entitled to compensation. In Missouri, victims of spinal cord injuries have a right to bring a lawsuit against the person or company whose negligence caused their injury. For example, if another driver caused the car accident that resulted in your spinal cord injury, you have the right to bring a lawsuit against that driver. Contact Griggs Injury Law today to discuss your right to compensation by scheduling a free initial consultation.
