Northern California Spinal Injury Attorneys

Spinal Cord Injury: Treatment

Though the prevalence and severity of spinal cord injuries should not be underplayed, there are a variety of treatment options available to spinal cord injury survivors. Recent advances in technology and increased public awareness due to factor such as actor Christopher Reeve's debilitating fall have opened doors for victims who now have hope for recovery from spinal cord injury.

Spinal cord injury treatment usually consists of neurosurgery where necessary, physical therapy and rehabilitative activities, medical control of pain symptoms, and psychosocial intervention such as antidepressants, therapy and career counseling. A patient's course of treatment will depend on factors such as age at injury, circumstances surrounding the patient's individual physiology, the severity of the injury, and any pre-existing conditions. Bracing, traction, and wheelchair use may be necessary for some patients.

A few short years ago, spinal cord injury victims were at severe risk for death by bowel and bladder infections. However, recent medical innovations and improved pharmacology has removed risk of bowel and bladder infection deaths altogether; these days, spinal cord injury victims are as likely to die from heart disease as any other population of Americans.

Electrode implants have been used to stimulate the body's functions and have been shown to improve bladder and bowel function, even enabling spinal cord victims to do things like write and eat with utensils. In addition, new avenues such as nanotechnology and stem cell research are being explored for their potential curative effects.

The reality for spinal cord injury survivors is that a severe injury can mean a lifetime of medical intervention. Spinal cord injury has been known to affect several bodily systems, including respiration, blood pressure, sexual function, bladder control, and to cause pain, pressure sores, spasms, and other issues. Each of these complications must be identified and dealt with by a patient's medical provider, and long-term treatment must evolve with the patient's needs and the available treatment modalities.

Van Der Walde & Associates understands the frustration associated with spinal cord injury. After all, rehabilitation can help, but it can't undo the underlying injury. If your injury was caused due to negligence, you may want to consult with our experienced California spine injury attorneys to find out more about filing a spinal cord injury lawsuit. We've collected millions on behalf of our clients in recent years - money that can be used to offset the often hefty costs associated with spinal cord injury. Think you have a claim? Call today for more information and a free consultation.