Secondary Conditions of Paralysis
Spinal cord injuries are associated with the risk of developing secondary conditions that can be debilitating and life-threatening, with the need for ongoing medical care. The following are some of the most common secondary conditions someone with paralysis may experience:
- Loss of bladder control
- Blood clots (deep vein thrombosis)
- Pain (triggered in the nervous system that can sometimes be debilitating)
- Respiratory issues and difficulty breathing
- Sepsis (blood poisoning due to the body’s response to an infection that injures organs and tissues)
- Pressure sores (caused by immobility and lack of sensation)
- Spasticity (muscle stiffness and uncontrollable movements)
Autonomic dysreflexia is a rare but life-threatening secondary condition that affects people with spinal cord injuries at the T6 level or higher. Symptoms may include high blood pressure, headache, flushed face, and low pulse.
Preventing Further Spinal Cord Damage
Rehabilitation and ongoing long-term medical care are critical to prevent or manage secondary complications. Timely and quick recognition of a spinal cord injury can help increase the chances of some recovery. Depending on the severity of the spinal cord injury, many treatments and therapies can stabilize the spine, such as surgery to reduce compression to the spinal cord or traction for immobilization and alignment.
Subsequently, someone may also need physical therapy and access to assistive devices such as a wheelchair, respiratory equipment, self-care tools, and other adaptive equipment to help a person perform everyday activities that can increase their independence. Our spinal cord injury attorneys in Louisville have helped victims seek compensation for the costs of recovery and rehabilitation.
Experienced a Spinal Cord Injury? Dolt, Thompson, Shepherd & Conway, PSC Can Help.
Learning that you have a spinal cord injury after an accident is devastating news — and when it causes paralyzation, it can make the situation that much more daunting. Our specialized Louisville paralysis injury attorneys understand that since spinal cord injuries come with many long-term complications, it can be stressful not knowing where to turn for help. If you’ve suffered a spinal cord injury in an accident that could have been avoided, you have rights and may be eligible to file a legal claim. We are here to help you hold the responsible parties accountable for their negligence.
Big cases require big resources. Our team of skilled personal injury attorneys in Louisville know all the tactics insurance companies use to deny claims or offer low settlements. We’re here to protect your rights and fight back until you receive the compensation you deserve.
Contact Dolt, Thompson, Shepherd & Conway, PSC at (502) 244-7772 to discuss your case.