By Soumava Goswami
If you’ve seen action films you’d be familiar with this one. The sound of bones cracking in the spinal cord is enough to send chills down the spine – well, at least the spectator’s. Okay, enough of the dark jokes. According to Vertos Medical Arizona, an expert in treatment for lumbar spinal stenosis, spinal cord injuries are pretty serious and can make the patient bedridden for a long time.
It is a life-altering injury that can significantly decrease the patient’s quality of life due to the severe impact on the emotional, physical, and mental well-being. Above that the financial toll that such severe injuries put on the victim is bone-chilling. (I should stop with the puns, I know.)
The following section explores the various aspects of spinal cord injuries – without puns or dark jokes! We’ll also look at the legal options that you can choose if the injury is due to someone else’s negligence.
Long-Term Effects Of Spinal Cord Injuries
Spinal cord injuries can affect the body in several ways – from having an impact on one’s mental health to leaving them physically disabled. The patient’s body is affected quite severely.
Spinal cord injuries have such an impact due to their role in transmitting signals between the brain and other body parts. Consequently, when this communication line is broken, they suffer several long-term consequences.
Here are some of the most profound impacts on one’s health due to spinal cord injuries. Let’s have a look:
Physical impact of spinal cord injuries
- Chronic pain: Spinal cord injuries have a damaging impact on the nerves that can cause a lot of pain to the victim. Moreover, pain can also be due to muscle strain that can cause painful spasms. This is both emotionally and physically draining
- Paralysis: Paralysis is quite common in cases of spinal cord injuries which leaves the surrounding body parts non-functional. The person can experience total or partial paralysis which depends on the nerves affected and the accident’s impact
- Impaired mobility: Nowadays with innovative rehabilitative methods, regaining complete mobility is a challenge. This can lead to limited mobility that requires the support of assistive devices and adaptations
Emotional and Psychological Impacts
The emotional and psychological effects of a spinal cord injury can be just as challenging as the physical ones. Many individuals face:
- Depression and Anxiety – The sudden lifestyle change and the uncertainty about the future can lead to mental health struggles.
- Adjustment Disorders – Coping with a new way of life requires adjustments that can be overwhelming, leading to stress and frustration.
Financial Strain
The financial implications of a spinal cord injury are significant. These include:
- Medical Expenses – Ongoing treatments, medications, and therapy can be costly.
- Adaptive Equipment – Wheelchairs, home modifications, and other assistive technologies can add up.
- Lost Income – If the injury impacts the ability to work, the loss of income can further strain finances.
Navigating Your Legal Options
If you’ve suffered a spinal cord injury due to an accident or negligence, understanding your legal rights is crucial. Additionally, the law provides avenues to seek compensation for your damages and hardships. Teaming up with experts like Shrager, Sachs, & Blanco is the best way to ensure you don’t miss out on the payout you deserve.
Personal Injury Claims
Personal injury claims are often the first step in seeking compensation. These can cover:
Medical Expenses
You may be entitled to compensation for past, present, and future medical costs related to your injury.
Lost Wages
If the injury has prevented you from working, you might be able to claim compensation for lost income.
Pain and Suffering
This includes compensation for physical pain, emotional distress, and the impact on your quality of life.
Workers’ Compensation
If your injury occurred while on the job, you might be eligible for workers’ compensation. This typically covers:
Medical Bills
Workers’ compensation often includes coverage for medical expenses related to the injury.
Disability Benefits
These benefits can provide financial support if you’re unable to work due to your injury.
Vocational Rehabilitation
Assistance with retraining or adapting to a new job if your injury affects your ability to return to your previous work.
Disability Benefits
For long-term injuries that prevent you from working, disability benefits can be a crucial support. There are two main types:
Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI)
A federal program that provides benefits based on your work history and contributions to Social Security.
Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
This program offers benefits based on financial need rather than work history.
Seeking Legal Help
Navigating the legal system can be complex, especially when dealing with the aftermath of a spinal cord injury. Here’s why consulting with a legal professional is beneficial:
- Expert Advice – A lawyer specializing in spinal cord injury cases can guide you through the legal process and protect your rights.
- Maximizing Compensation – Legal experts can help you understand the full extent of compensation you may be entitled to and work to secure it.
- Handling Complex Cases – They can handle the paperwork, negotiations, and legal battles, allowing you to focus on recovery.
The Road to Recovery
While the journey after a spinal cord injury is undoubtedly challenging, there are paths to recovery and improvement. Additionally, rehabilitation, therapy, and support from family and professionals play a vital role in this process.
Physical Therapy
Physical therapy helps in improving mobility, strength, and overall function. Personalized rehabilitation plans can make a significant difference in the recovery process.
Support Systems
Emotional and psychological support is just as important as physical recovery. Engaging with support groups, counseling, and therapy can provide the encouragement and assistance needed to cope with the changes.
Adaptations and Assistive Technology
Investing in adaptive equipment and home modifications can significantly improve quality of life. These tools help manage daily activities and enhance independence.
Moving Forward with Hope
Finally, spinal cord injuries impact a person quite severely. Still, with the proper support, treatment, and legal guidance, hope exists for improving quality of life and securing financial stability.
Understanding the long-term effects and exploring your legal options can empower you to make informed decisions and seek the support you need.
Whether navigating the legal landscape or focusing on recovery, remember that you don’t have to face this journey alone. There are resources, professionals, and support systems ready to help you through every step of the way.
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