A Personal Injury Law Firm That Puts You First

Treating spinal cord injuries

In an instant, accidents may cause trauma such as spinal cord injuries, which often have long-lasting repercussions. People who experience such injuries often have long roads to recovery.

After suffering a spinal cord injury, it benefits those injured and their families to understand what to expect from the treatment of their conditions.

Immediate treatment

According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, emergent treatment of spinal cord injuries typically focuses on stabilization. Emergency personnel will seek to limit the effects of the trauma using a neck collar and carrying board.

Treatment of acute spine injuries once in the emergency room continues to focus on immobilization, and also aims to maintain the injured person’s ability to breathe. Doctors may administer medications, perform surgical procedures, employ alignment and stabilization techniques, or use any combination of these treatments.

Ongoing care

According to the Mayo Clinic, the ongoing care of spinal cord injuries generally focuses on rehabilitation and preventing secondary complications. Rehabilitation, which often includes physical and occupational therapies, will work to rebuild fine motor skills, keep and strengthen the remaining muscle function, and adapt to perform day-to-day tasks. Additional care will aim to reduce the likelihood of complications such as urinary tract or kidney infections, lung problems or circulatory issues that may result due to changes in how the body functions because of the injury.

When the negligence of others causes people to suffer spinal cord injuries that require extensive medical care, they may have entitlement to financial compensation. Therefore, those who have experienced such situations often find it helpful to seek legal guidance to better understand their rights and options for pursuing damages.