Spinal cord injuries are among the most serious types of injuries (whether you fall at work or home), although the prognosis depends a great deal on the location of the injury. Inevitably, a spinal cord injury will require extensive physical rehabilitation to regain as much mobility and function as possible.
In the case of a minor spinal cord injury (SCI), you may only need the help of a wheelchair or walker, but a severe injury can leave you completely dependent on someone else for care.
Phases of Treatment for a Spinal Cord Injury
There are two phases of SCI treatment: the acute phase and the rehab phase. The acute phase of treatment will begin as soon as possible after the injury occurs and lasts until you are stable. From there, you will enter the rehabilitation phase which will conclude once you reach maximum physical improvement.
Both phases of treatment are equally important in achieving the best improvement from your injury. How fast you receive proper care after your injury can make a significant difference in how quickly you recover, so it is important to seek medical attention immediately.
Keep in mind the full extent of your injury may not be apparent for days or even weeks after the initial injury due to swelling. Those in the acute phase can experience a phenomenon known as “spinal shock” during which your reflexes do not work. It will be very hard to determine your exact prognosis because you may gain function beyond what is apparent soon after the accident.
Once your doctor determines the extent of your spinal cord injury and stabilizes it, your rehabilitation will begin. The goal of physical rehabilitation is assisting you in regaining as much function and movement as possible. Through rehabilitation, you will understand your new limitations, determine the type of long-term care you may require, and learn innovative ways to complete everyday tasks.
Physical Therapy Approaches for SCI
SCI rehabilitation usually involves a multidisciplinary approach:
- An occupational therapist focuses on upper extremities and trouble with daily activities like dressing
- A physical therapist usually works with lower extremities and mobility issues
- A psychologist assists with the behavioral and emotional concerns as well as any cognitive dysfunction you may have suffered
- A rehabilitation nurse focuses on bladder and bowel dysfunction as well as pressure ulcer (bedsore) concerns
- A speech-language pathologist focuses on swallowing issues and communication
Rehabilitation for a spinal cord injury usually takes place at a spinal cord injury treatment center with SCI specialists.
Rehabilitation Potential Based on Injury Location
In addition to the quality of your care and how fast you receive treatment, the location of your injury will play a crucial role in your rehabilitation potential. The following are typical levels of recovery based on the location of the injury on the spinal cord:
- L1 to L5: Able to walk short distances with an assistive device like a walker.
- T6 to T12: Sitting balance may improve and the ability to participate in sports with a wheelchair may be possible.
- T1 to T6: Independence may be possible with a wheelchair.
- C7 or C8: May be able to propel a wheelchair outside or drive with adaptations.
- C6: May be able to push a wheelchair indoors and perform daily activities like dressing and eating.
- C5: May be able to eat independently with assistive devices. Respiratory support is usually necessary.
- C4: Typically dependent on others for all care and usually requires a ventilator.
- C2 or C3: Dependent on others for all levels of care.
Spinal cord injuries are often the result of traffic accidents, slip and fall accidents, and workplace accidents. If you have suffered a spinal cord injury due to someone else’s negligence or intentional actions, you may have a personal injury claim against the at-fault party for your current and future medical bills, lost wages, reduced earning capacity, pain and suffering, and other damages.
An experienced personal injury lawyer can help you explore your legal options for seeking the compensation you need.
