Life After A Spinal Cord Injury In New York

Suffering spinal cord injuries may be life-changing, which is why it may help for people to understand the potential effects of these conditions.

Spinal cord injuries are those caused by damage to the spinal cord, or the bunch of nerves that extends from the brain down the back. New Yorkers and people in other localities may suffer such injuries due to falls, motor vehicle collisions, on-the-job accidents or any other number of incidents. Since spinal cord injuries may have a significant, permanent effect on those who suffer them, it may be helpful for people to understand their potential impact and how these conditions are treated.

What are the symptoms of spinal cord injuries?

Depending on the completeness of their injuries, people may experience a range of symptoms, such as the loss of their feeling and motor function, due to spinal cord injuries. Other common symptoms of this type of spinal trauma may include the following:

· Pain

· Weakness

· Spasms or exaggerated reflexes

· Impaired breathing

· Loss of bladder or bowel control

Additionally, spinal cord injuries may cause changes in people’s fertility and sexual function.

What are the potential complications of spinal cord injuries?

Spinal cord injuries may significantly change how the body functions. Due to the effects of these injuries, people may develop any number of complications. For example, changes in their bladder and bowel function and control may make those who suffer from these types of injuries more susceptible to bladder, kidney and urinary tract infections, as well as to developing bladder and kidney stones. The loss of sensation may put people with spinal cord injuries at a greater risk of developing skin problems, such as pressure sores.

Additionally, people who suffer spinal cord injuries often experience issues with their circulatory control and respiratory systems. This may make them more likely to develop potentially life-threatening conditions, including pulmonary embolus, deep vein thrombosis and autonomic hyperreflexia. Particularly if their injuries are at the cervical or thoracic levels, people may have an increased risk for pneumonia or other lung problems.

How are spinal cord injuries treated?

Unfortunately, damage to the spinal cord, resulting in spinal cord injuries, presently cannot be reversed. Consequently, treatment of these types of ailments are generally aimed at preventing further injury, managing the associated symptoms and controlling any resulting complications. Emergency treatment of spinal cord trauma may include immobilization, steps to facilitate people’s breathing, traction or surgery. Sometimes, people who suffer spinal cord injuries may be prescribed medications to reduce inflammation or help treat their symptoms or complications. Occupational and physical therapy, as well as assistive medical devices, are also often used to help those injured adapt and cope with the changes to their bodies and bodily functions.

Working with an attorney

Whether suffered in the workplace or in another accident, spinal cord injuries may have a devastating impact on people in New York and elsewhere. Those who suffer from these types of ailments may need extensive medical care and time off work, or they may be unable to return to work at all. Unexpected expenses and lost income may make an already challenging time even more difficult. Under some circumstances, however, those responsible for causing such harm may be held liable for the resulting damages. Therefore, it may benefit those who have suffered spinal cord injuries to seek legal guidance to learn more about their options for pursuing financial compensation.