The spinal cord is the main communication trunk of your body and can be injured due to accidents, sports, weight lifting, etc. A spinal cord injury in any part of the body can lead to problems like loss of movement, muscle weakness, and reduced sensation in that area. In contrast, others face issues like paralysis and loss of ability to feel pain.

Emotional distress

According to the personal injury website www.vdlegal.com, people with spinal cord injuries have to deal with several changes in their life, which can lead to depression and anxiety. Physical disability, loss of independence and self-respect, and inability to perform the daily chores can create massive stress due to this problem. Therefore, you are often advised to do activities that divert your attention and release you from stress, like reading books and watching movies.

Self-concept issues

The most significant loss you will face after a spinal cord injury is self-esteem and self-confidence, which are severely hurt by such an injury leading you towards depression and anxiety. You are recommended to accept the situation as it is and not to lower your self-esteem.

Depression

Unfortunately, depression can seriously affect your life, and there are times when it may turn into a debilitating problem. Therefore, if you or your loved ones suffer from this problem and feel it’s adversely affecting your life, don’t hesitate to seek professional help as soon as possible.

Sexual impairment

The majority of people with spinal cord injuries are capable of having normal sexual relationships after they have recovered from the injury. Still, some may have temporary issues due to neurological problems, which can be treated medically in some cases. If it persists, seek medication from a specialist.

Amputation

It is another primary concern, and you may have to undergo an amputation if they cannot walk again after a spinal cord injury. It can be highly traumatic as it involves the loss of a limb, possibly one that you need for your daily chores, or because it helps you to regain balance and use your disability. In the event of permanent disability, you are advised to use equipment or machines for locomotion.

Functional impairment

It is widespread for people suffering from spinal cord injuries to experience functional impairments like loss of bowel and bladder functions, difficulty, incontinence, and so on. Medical treatment is available for such issues, but it is recommended that you take extra care of your body as you may need an assistive device during the initial stages of recovery.

Dependence on other people

Some people with spinal cord injuries need assistance from the whole family to ensure that necessary body functions are carried out to avoid dependency. In such cases, you should seek help from local institutes or care homes.

You have to be very careful while doing things that can put your life at risk, and take care while walking, driving, and lifting heavy weights. Also, ensure you have a regular exercise regime because it will help reduce the impact of spinal cord injuries on your body.

If your spinal cord injury was caused by a motor vehicle accident, you may be able to obtain compensation to cover the cost of at-home care and technologies to enhance your independence. This is true even if a family member and not a nurse or medical provider are taking care of you. To learn more about this, speak with a car accident lawyer. 

Ellen Diamond did her degree in psychology at the University of Edinburgh. She is interested in mental health, wellness, and lifestyle.