Statistics show that spinal cord injuries affect about 17,500 Americans every year.Paraplegia typically results from spinal cord injuries. This kind of disability is one of the most serious, as it affects a person’s day-to-day life.
Paraplegia is a severe medical condition characterized by the loss of mobility in the lower half of the body. Paraplegia requires rehabilitation and constant medical support, which may add to the financial costs.
Victims who suffer from paraplegia as a result of someone else’s negligence should contact spinal cord injury attorneys to help them navigate the complications involved.
In this article, we will talk about everything you need to know about paraplegia.
Causes of Paraplegia
Paraplegia arises from traumatic spinal cord injuries resulting from accidents, everyday activities, or illnesses. Motor vehicle accidents are among the leading causes of severe damage to the spinal cord.
Falls, particularly among older adults or those working in high-risk conditions like construction, also significantly contribute to spinal cord injuries..
Another cause is sport-related activities, with diving leading the charts. Other factors include acts of violence, particularly gunshot wounds, and medical/surgery errors.
The Types of Paraplegia
The severity of the injury determines the degree of paraplegia. The two major types of paraplegia from accidents are mentioned below.
Complete Paraplegia
This is the complete or total loss of sensory and motor functions in the lower body. The spinal cord is fully or severely damaged to the point that no communication takes place between the brain and the lower part of the body.
Incomplete Paraplegia
With incomplete paraplegia, the body retains some form of functionality below the injury site. The degree of functionality varies, with some people having the ability to walk short distances using assistive devices.
The Physical and Emotional Toll of Paraplegia
Living with paraplegia has profound physical and emotional challenges that can profoundly impact a victim’s life.
Physical Impacts
Physically, the loss of mobility below the waist affects an individual’s ability to live independently. Daily activities such as dressing, bathing, and moving require adaptation or assistance. Many individuals rely on assistive devices like wheelchairs, braces, or walkers in cases of incomplete paraplegia.
Paraplegia often results in secondary medical issues. These include:
- Pressure sores from prolonged sitting
- Urinary tract infection due to bladder dysfunction
- Muscle atrophy from inactivity
Long-term complications are also a risk.
For example, people experience chronic pain, osteoporosis, and increased risks of cardiovascular disease because of reduced inactivity.
Emotional Effects of Paraplegia
Many individuals suffer from depression, anxiety, or feelings of isolation due to lifestyle changes from paraplegia. Adjusting to a new way of life can be overwhelming. The need for continuous support from family, friends, or caregivers often strains relationships.
Mental health support, including counseling and support groups, plays a vital role in helping victims cope with these challenges.
Conclusion
While the challenges of paraplegia can be extreme, advances in medical care, rehabilitation, and technology provide hope for individuals living with the condition.
It is also important forthese victims to reach out to a good law firm to support them in filing for compensation.