Five Myths About Spinal Cord Injuries

Families who are coping with a member who has suffered spinal cord injuries have many considerations to make, ranging from providing immediate medical support to planning for long-term care and financial support.

As lawyers who specialize in cases involving injuries to the spinal cord, we are aware that cases of this nature can have repercussions not only for the individuals who sustain the injuries but also for the members of their families who provide for and look after them. When it comes to spinal cord injuries, there are many common myths and misunderstandings.

Myth 1: Cost Is Not Much Of A Factor After A Spinal Cord Injury

Patients with spinal cord injuries face a significant challenge when it comes to finances. In many instances, individuals do not have full coverage from their medical insurance, and as a result, families wind up spending tens of thousands of dollars out of their own pockets for medical care, the cost of equipment, and the cost of medications.

People who have suffered spinal cord injuries frequently require the use of wheelchairs; lift systems, ramps, and specialized bathroom equipment in order to continue their recovery at home. It is possible that a spinal cord injury will end up costing a person millions of dollars over the course of their lifetime.

Myth 2: Rehabilitation For A Spinal Injury Ends When You Leave The Hospital

When a patient is first admitted to an in-patient rehabilitation program, he or she will typically undergo an evaluation with a group of clinicians. The individual and the team work together to establish goals and a strategy for how to achieve those goals. The conclusion of in-patient therapy does not signify the conclusion of recovery from spinal cord injuries.

In point of fact, patients who have suffered a spinal cord injury face a long and difficult road to recovery, and for many of these patients, a full recovery may not even be possible. Patients who have suffered spinal cord injuries benefit from ongoing rehabilitation even after they leave the hospital.

Myth 3: All Spinal Cord Injuries Are The Same

There are many different types of spinal cord injuries. The spinal cord is comprised of a network of nerves that are responsible for transmitting signals between the brain and the rest of the body.

Therefore, damage to the spinal cord can prevent the brain from communicating with the rest of the body, which is typically what causes paralysis, either partial or complete.

Myth 4: The Spine Must Be Completely Severed For Loss Of Motor Function To Occur

The unfortunate truth is that even if only a portion of a person’s spinal cord is severed, it is still possible for them to experience loss of motor function and sensation. When the spinal cord is stretched, bruised, or crushed, it is entirely possible for the patient to experience a loss of motor function as well as sensation.

Myth 5: You Don’t Need An Attorney To Represent You In Your Spinal Cord Injury Case.

Given that the most common causes of spinal cord injuries are auto accidents, falls, and acts of violence, spinal cord injury cases frequently involve some form of negligence or wrongdoing. If another person or entity was responsible for your injury, you may be entitled to financial compensation for your significant losses.

Conclusion

You may not be able to receive the compensation you deserve if you do not have an experienced spinal cord injuries attorney on your side. If you have suffered a spinal cord injury, contact the Oracle Law Firm at (888) 547-1778 for a free, in-depth, and confidential consultation.