The prospect of a spinal cord injury frightens most people. People dislike the idea of losing motor control and physical sensation in parts of their bodies. Many worry about the possibility of being dependent on assistive technology or other people for the challenges of daily life in the event that they should incur such injuries.
Spinal cord injuries are undoubtedly some of the most expensive and life-altering injuries possible after a car crash. Someone who injures their neck, back or spine may need immediate emergency transportation to nearby medical facilities, emergency care and long-term rehabilitative support. Yet, like virtually all other kinds of injuries, the severity of this type of harm varies.
Are spinal cord injuries permanent, or is recovery possible?
Some injuries are less serious than others
Contrary to popular belief, not all spinal cord injuries result in permanent and total loss of function and sensation below the injury site. Some people have incomplete spinal cord injuries. The physical trauma they experienced did not cut through or sever the spinal cord. It may have torn or pinched the spinal cord instead.
They may experience a host of different symptoms, including reduced functional abilities and interruptions in sensation. People with incomplete spinal cord injuries often require intensive medical interventions immediately prior to their initial injury and ongoing care for the rest of their lives.
However, they might potentially recover some lost functions given the right medical support. Partial or incomplete spinal cord injuries sometimes end with an individual’s body healing much of the damage. Even if the condition does not improve with treatments, an incomplete spinal cord injury often comes with an opportunity to regain lost functions through occupational therapy and other forms of rehabilitation support.
People can recover lost functional abilities and improve how they move despite the limitations of an incomplete spinal cord injury. The treatment costs for handling the initial trauma of the injury and helping someone adjust to it can easily add up to hundreds of thousands of dollars.
Filing an insurance claim or possibly a personal injury lawsuit may be necessary to cover the costs generated by a spinal cord injury that has been caused by another’s actions or inaction. People who learn more about their prognosis may be more assertive about getting the medical care – and legal compensation – that they need and deserve.
