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What Recovery Is Expected Following a Spinal Cord Injury?

A spinal cord injury can be painful and result in significant complications. Many people experience a loss of feeling and function below the injury site, and in some cases, these symptoms are permanent. However, some people are able to make a full recovery.

Recovery from a spinal cord injury can vary based on the severity and location of the damage. If you develop a spinal cord injury in Augusta, it is critical to seek medical care as soon as possible and receive immediate treatment.

Prognosis and Recovery Following a Spinal Cord Injury

There are two main categories of spinal cord injuries: incomplete and complete. Complete injuries result in a total loss of feeling and function, while people with incomplete injuries retain some feeling or function.

Generally, patients who have an incomplete spinal cord injury are more likely to make a full recovery. People who receive medical care as soon as possible following a spinal cord injury are also likely to see a better prognosis than those who wait.

People with spinal cord injuries often require significant support and accommodations following the injury. They may need psychological counseling and time with friends and family members to cope with the life changes that accompany this injury. Patients may also require accommodations like mobility equipment and live-in caregivers who can help with daily tasks.

The Stages of Recovery from a Spinal Cord Injury

Medical professionals categorize recovery for spinal cord injury into two stages. The first stage begins at the hospital and focuses on stabilizing the condition. The second stage occurs outside of the hospital and involves rehabilitation and treatment for any complications.

• First Stage: Immediately after the injury, spinal cord injury treatment will begin in the hospital. Usually, the patient will need to undergo surgery. The medical team will check the patient’s airways, mobility, vital signs, and ability to feel. Treatment will focus on stabilizing the spine and avoiding common complications. 
• Second Stage: Once the first stage is complete, the patient’s medical team will have a better idea of the patient’s condition. They will create a rehabilitation plan, which may include physical or occupational therapy and counseling. The patient will need to attend checkups with their doctor and may require rehabilitation and treatment for several years. Some people are able to regain function in the first years after the injury.

Paying for Spinal Cord Injury Treatment in Georgia

Spinal cord injury treatment can be expensive. According to the National Spinal Cord Injury Statistical Center (NSCISC), the lifetime costs of a spinal cord injury can range from $1.2 million to $5.1 million. For most people, this treatment can be difficult to maintain.

However, if someone else’s actions caused a spinal cord injury, the victim has the right to hold him or her accountable for the losses that you suffered. By filing an insurance claim or lawsuit, he or she could recover a settlement to pay for your future medical care as well as rehabilitation, disability accommodations, and more.

If you believe that you qualify for a spinal cord injury claim, speak to an attorney as soon as possible. Your Georgia spinal cord injury lawyer can help you understand your legal options and take your first steps toward recovering the compensation that you deserve.