Traumatic accidents and falls may lead to spinal cord injury.
Prompt emergency treatment and rehabilitation are crucial aspects of managing spinal cord injuries for optimal recovery.
However, while there are activities associated with an elevated risk, anyone can experience a spinal cord injury.
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Moving someone who has injured their spinal column or spinal cord can lead to serious damage.
Call 911 to get emergency medical assistance.
Some effects that can occur include loss of bowel and bladder control, weakness, and loss of sensation.
Thoracic Spinal Cord
Thethoracicspinal cordis located in the mid and upper back.
An injury at this level will usually cause symptoms affecting the trunk, chest, and legs.
Lumbar Spinal Cord
Thelumbar spinal cordis in the lower part of the back.
An injury to this region will cause symptoms affecting the legs.
This can quickly identify the level of the spinal cord where the injury occurred.
You will likely need to have imaging of your spinal cord after you are medically stable.
Common effects of a spinal cord injury include weakness and sensory loss.
An incomplete spinal cord injury does not completely disrupt sensation and movement at the level of the injury.
The initial loss of ability after a spinal cord injury often reflects the long-term effects.
However, sometimes people experience partial or substantial recovery after a spinal cord injury.
This is especially true if treatment is initiated promptly.
For example, lung surgery or brain surgery might be necessary as well.
Sexual Function After a Spinal Cord Injury
Sometimes spinal cord injury affects sexual function.
Spinal Cord Injury Mobility Devices
Devices for living with spinal cord disability are varied.
Depending on your specific abilities, your healthcare team may recommend different medical equipment.
Most people are not familiar with the process of obtaining disability benefits.
you’re free to start by asking your healthcare providers for recommendations.
Summary
A spinal cord injury can be life altering.
Prompt treatment plays a crucial role in preventing severe and permanent damage.
Rehabilitation and assistance in obtaining disability benefits are necessary to help you stay as safe and healthy as possible.
