Almost half of all spinal cord injuries result from vehicle crashes, low-speed rear-end collisions included.
What kind of treatment follows such an injury and what is the prognosis for recovery?
About SCI
There are two types of spinal cord injury (SCI). With a complete injury, the patient will lose any ability to feel and move below the damage site. However, with an incomplete SCI, the patient will still retain some functioning. In general, someone with this kind of injury may experience loss of mobility as well as loss of sensation such as the ability to feel touch, heat or cold. In the most severe case of SCI, the patient faces quadriplegia-paralysis of both arms and legs.
Treatment for SCI
At this time, there is no way to reverse spinal cord damage, although research is ongoing. In the meantime, doctors focus on nerve cell regeneration through the use of medications and prostheses. The treatment includes long-term rehabilitation to help restore functions such as arm and leg movements, breathing and bladder control.
A look ahead
If a negligent driver causes a vehicle crash, an injured victim may face months if not years of care. The medical costs of treating SCI quickly mount and can cause considerable stress. However, the patient should only have to focus on recovery. With dedicated care, it is possible for a person with SCI to return to an active life. An advocate, acting on his or her behalf, can work toward obtaining maximum compensation to cover current and future medical expenses, lost wages and more.
