What is Spinal Cord Injury Awareness Day?
On 17th May it is Spinal Cord Injury Awareness Day which is an opportunity to shed light on the profound impact that spinal injuries can have on individuals and their loved ones.
In this blog, we delve into the different types of spinal injuries, available support networks, and the legal avenues we specialise in to provide comprehensive assistance.
Understanding spinal injury
Spinal injuries can result from various incidents, ranging from car accidents and falls to sports injuries and medical malpractice.
Spinal injuries encompass a broad spectrum of conditions, each with its own causes, symptoms, and implications. These injuries can be classified into two main types: traumatic and non-traumatic.
Traumatic spinal injuries:
- These occur due to sudden, forceful impacts on the spine, leading to fractures, dislocations, or compression of the spinal cord.
- Common causes include motor vehicle accidents, falls from heights, sports injuries, and acts of violence.
- Traumatic spinal injuries often result in paralysis, loss of sensation, and other debilitating effects.
Non-traumatic spinal injuries:
- These injuries develop gradually over time and are often associated with degenerative conditions, tumours, infections, or inflammatory diseases affecting the spine.
- Conditions like spinal stenosis, herniated discs, and tumours can lead to chronic pain, weakness, and mobility issues.
- Cauda equina syndrome is a rare but serious condition that occurs when the nerves at the base of the spinal cord are compressed, leading to bowel and bladder dysfunction, numbness, and weakness. Cauda equina syndrome is a medical emergency.
Despite their diverse origins, both types of spinal injuries can have significant and long-lasting effects on an individual’s quality of life.
Spinal injury support available
Navigating life after a spinal injury can be overwhelming and access to comprehensive support networks is essential for both physical and emotional well-being. Here are some sources of support:
Medical care:
- Immediate medical attention is crucial for individuals with spinal injuries. This may involve emergency treatment, surgery, rehabilitation, and ongoing medical management.
- Rehabilitation programs focus on maximizing function and independence through physical therapy, occupational therapy, and other interventions. Rehabilitation plays a crucial role in maximizing recovery and restoring independence.
Emotional support:
- Coping with a spinal injury can be emotionally challenging. Counselling, support groups, and peer mentoring programs offer invaluable emotional support and encouragement.
- Mental health professionals can help individuals and their families address anxiety, depression, and other psychological effects of spinal injuries.
Assistive devices and home modifications:
- Adaptive equipment such as wheelchairs, walkers, and assistive technology can enhance independence and mobility.
- Home modifications may be necessary to create a safe and accessible environment, including ramps, grab bars, and bathroom modifications.
Legal assistance
In cases where a spinal injury results from the negligence or wrongful actions of another party, pursuing a legal claim may be necessary to secure compensation and accountability.
At Rothera Bray, our serious injury solicitors specialise in representing clients in a variety of spinal injury claims, including those arising from traumatic incidents such as car accidents, falls, workplace injuries and recreational accidents. We also act for clients who have been affected by medical negligence resulting in failure to diagnose, treat or manage spinal injuries.
We’re dedicated to advocating for the rights of spinal injury victims, seeking compensation for medical expenses, lost income, pain and suffering, and long-term care needs.
As we observe Spinal Cord Injury Awareness Day, let us come together to raise awareness, offer support, and advocate for the rights of those affected by spinal injuries. Through education, empowerment, and compassionate legal guidance, we can make a meaningful difference in the lives of our clients and families navigating the complexities of spinal injury recovery.
If you have concerns about the treatment that you, or a loved one has received, please contact us on 03456 465 465 or email enquiries@rotherabray.co.uk
Support for those suffering with the impact of spinal injury can be found at:-
Spinal Injuries Association – https://spinal.co.uk/
Back Up – https://www.backuptrust.org.uk/
Disclaimer: This blog is for information only and does not constitute legal advice. If you need legal advice please contact us on 03456 465 465 or email enquiries@rotherabray.co.uk to get tailored advice specific to your circumstances from our qualified lawyers.
