Suffering a spinal cord injury is a life-altering event that can have profound and lasting consequences. At Hamparyan Personal Injury Lawyers, we have worked with numerous individuals and their families whose lives have been disrupted by spinal cord damage. In this guide, we share valuable insights and information to help you navigate the legal and practical aspects of life after a spinal cord injury.

Understanding Spinal Cord Injuries

The spinal cord is a bundle of nerves running down the center of the backbone (the spinal column). This column of nerves is crucial for the brain to send signals to various parts of the body. If the spinal cord gets damaged, such as through a car accident, the result could be spinal cord injury (SCI), which is a serious injury type. Depending on the extent and location of the injury, this damage may cause a partial or total loss of sensation and motion. 

Types of Spinal Cord Injuries

Spinal cord injuries are typically classified into two main categories:

1. Complete Spinal Cord Injury: In this type of injury, all motor function and feeling below the damaged site are lost due to a complete amputation of the spinal cord. 
2. Incomplete Spinal Cord Injury: In an incomplete injury, the spinal cord is partially damaged, and some sensation and movement may be preserved below the area of the injury.

Levels of Spinal Cord Injuries

The level of a spinal cord injury refers to the specific location along the spinal column where the damage occurred. The higher the level of injury, the more extensive the potential impact on bodily functions. The levels of spinal cord injuries are typically categorized as follows:

• Cervical (neck) injuries: Injuries to the cervical region of the spinal cord can result in quadriplegia, affecting the arms, trunk, and legs.
• Thoracic (upper back) injuries: Injuries to the thoracic region can lead to paraplegia, affecting the trunk and legs.
• Lumbar (lower back) injuries: Injuries to the lumbar region can affect the hips, legs, and pelvic organs.
• Sacral (tailbone) injuries: Injuries to the sacral region can impact bowel, bladder, and sexual function.

Causes of Spinal Cord Injuries

Spinal cord injuries can occur due to various causes, including:

• Motor vehicle accidents
• Falls
• Sports-related injuries
• Acts of violence
• Workplace accidents
• Medical conditions or diseases.

Regardless of the cause, a spinal cord injury can have a profound impact on an individual’s life, requiring significant medical treatment, rehabilitation, and ongoing care.

Immediate Medical Care and Rehabilitation

Prompt medical attention is crucial in the aftermath of a spinal cord injury. The initial treatment focuses on stabilizing the patient, preventing further damage to the spinal cord, and addressing any life-threatening complications.

Once the patient is stabilized, the rehabilitation process begins. This typically involves a multidisciplinary team of healthcare professionals, including physical therapists, occupational therapists, speech therapists, and psychologists. The goal of rehabilitation is to help the individual regain as much function and independence as possible, while also addressing emotional and psychological challenges.

Long-Term Care and Accommodations

For many individuals with spinal cord injuries, long-term care and accommodations are necessary. These may include:

• Accessible housing modifications (such as ramps, widened doorways, and accessible bathrooms)
• Assistive devices (wheelchairs, mobility aids, or communication devices)
• Personal care assistance
• Ongoing medical care and therapy
• Vocational rehabilitation and job training.

Ensuring access to appropriate long-term care and accommodations is crucial for maintaining quality of life and promoting independence for individuals with spinal cord injuries.

Physical Therapy and Mental Health Support for Spinal Cord Injury Recovery

Physical therapy plays a crucial role in the rehabilitation process for individuals with spinal cord injuries. After sustaining an SCI, many individuals experience a loss of bodily control and mobility. Engaging in extensive physical therapy is essential for regaining as much function and independence as possible.

Physical therapy for SCI is a physically demanding endeavor, but it is necessary for those who wish to regain some level of mobility and bodily control. Through various exercises, techniques, and assistive devices, physical therapists work to help SCI patients improve their strength, flexibility, balance, and overall physical abilities.

While the physical aspect of recovery is vital, the emotional and psychological challenges of navigating life with an SCI cannot be overlooked. Coping with such a life-changing injury can be emotionally draining, as individuals must come to terms with a new reality that is vastly different from their previous way of life.

Mental health professionals, such as psychologists and counselors, are better equipped to provide the necessary tools and support to help individuals with SCI cope with their injury. Through therapy sessions, individuals can work on developing healthy coping mechanisms, building resilience, and finding ways to adapt to their new circumstances.

Mental health interventions may include cognitive-behavioral therapy, support groups, or counseling to address issues such as depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), which are common among individuals with SCI. These interventions can help individuals process their emotions, develop a positive mindset, and find meaning and purpose in their lives despite the challenges they face.

Legal Damages You May Claim in a Spinal Cord Injury Case

A spinal cord injury is immensely costly. If your SCI was caused by someone else’s negligence or misconduct, it’s important to explore your legal claim to compensation with a spinal cord injury lawyer. You may be eligible to recover various types of damages, including:

• Economic damages:
  • Medical expenses (past and future)
  • Rehabilitation costs
  • Lost wages
  • Reduced future earning potential
  • Home and vehicle modifications
  • Assistive devices and equipment.
• Non-economic damages:
  • Pain and suffering
  • Emotional or mental distress
  • Loss of enjoyment of life
  • Loss of consortium (for spouses).
• Punitive damages:
  • You may receive an additional award called punitive damages if the at-fault party behaved with extreme negligence or deliberate wrongdoing. Punitive damages penalize the offending party and discourage future instances of the same behavior.

Calculating Damages in a Spinal Cord Injury Case

Talk to a spinal cord injury attorney to help you determine the amount of compensation you may claim in your case. A spinal cord injury case is a complex process that requires the know-how of experienced attorneys and medical professionals. Our team at Hamparyan Personal Injury Lawyers works closely with medical experts, life care planners, and economists to accurately calculate the full extent of your damages, both present and future.

We understand that no amount of money can undo the trauma of a spinal cord injury. Our goal, however, is to ensure that you and your family have the resources necessary to maintain the highest possible quality of life.

Coping With Spinal Cord Injury: The Grieving Process

Suffering a spinal cord injury (SCI) is a catastrophic event that can trigger a grieving process similar to losing a loved one. As you adapt to your new reality, it is natural to experience a range of emotions and go through various stages of grief. This process is not linear, and you may find yourself revisiting certain stages or experiencing multiple emotions simultaneously:

Denial

In the initial aftermath of your injury, you may experience a sense of denial or disbelief. It can be challenging to accept the significant changes and limitations imposed by your SCI. You may hold on to the belief that your condition is temporary or that you will eventually regain your previous abilities.

Anger

As the reality of your situation sets in, you may feel overwhelmed by anger and frustration stemming from the unfairness of the situation. You may direct your anger towards yourself, the circumstances that led to your injury, or even towards others involved.

Bargaining

During this stage, you may find yourself bargaining or negotiating, either with a higher power or within yourself. Religious individuals in this situation may promise significant sacrifices in exchange for miraculous healing. Meanwhile, non-religious individuals may plead with any deity for a reversal of their injury, offering newfound devotion in return.

Depression

Reconciling with the irreversible nature of your spinal cord injury can lead to feelings of profound sadness and depression. You may experience a range of symptoms, including sleeping problems, emotional volatility, lack of energy, deep sadness, brain fog, and even suicidal ideation. It’s absolutely vital to seek professional help from a mental health expert if you are experiencing these symptoms.

Acceptance

Acceptance is the final stage of the grieving process, and it is a crucial step towards moving forward with your life. While the road to acceptance can be challenging, it is possible with the right support and tools. Try engaging in community support groups, participating in physical therapy, and seeking mental health service, as these can help you accept – and thrive in – your new reality.

The grieving process is unique to each individual, and there is no set timeline or order for experiencing these stages. Be patient and compassionate with yourself as you navigate this emotional journey.

Rebuilding Your Life After a Spinal Cord Injury

Suffering a spinal cord injury does not mean your life has come to an end. While significant adjustments and lifestyle changes are necessary, it is possible to rebuild a fulfilling and purposeful life in the aftermath of an SCI. This includes regaining your confidence, independence, and sense of self-worth.

Cultivating a Support System

One of the most crucial aspects of rebuilding your life after an SCI is establishing a strong support system. Surround yourself with loved ones, healthcare professionals, and others who have experienced similar challenges – they can provide invaluable emotional support, guidance, and motivation. Support groups and counseling services can offer a sense of community and understanding, helping you navigate the unique challenges and emotions that arise during the recovery process.

Rediscovering Purpose and Passion

As you adapt to your new circumstances, it is essential to rediscover your passions and find purpose in your life. Explore activities, hobbies, or vocational opportunities that align with your interests and abilities. Pursuing these passions can provide a sense of fulfillment and foster a positive mindset and promote overall well-being.

Embracing Independence

While an SCI may require assistance in certain areas of life, it is crucial to strive for as much independence as possible. Engaging in rehabilitation programs, learning adaptive techniques, and utilizing assistive technologies can empower you to regain control over various aspects of your daily life. This sense of autonomy can boost self-confidence and contribute to a higher quality of life.

Adapting to a New Normal

Your “new normal” may include making modifications to your living environment, learning new skills, and developing coping strategies to manage the physical and emotional challenges that arise. Embracing this new reality with resilience and an open mind can help you navigate the transition more smoothly.

Remember, there is no one-size-fits-all approach to rebuilding your life after a spinal injury. With the right support system, a positive mindset, and a willingness to adapt, you can overcome obstacles and create a fulfilling life that aligns with your values and aspirations.

Turn to Hamparyan Personal Injury Lawyers for Legal Recourse After a Spinal Cord Injury

We at Hamparyan Personal Injury Lawyers provide compassionate and competent legal representation to Californians with spinal cord injury. We fight aggressively for our clients to receive their maximum compensation, while offering the practical and emotional support they need during the process. And we are skilled at what we do: in the last 30+ years, we have obtained more than $100 million for our clients with serious injuries.

If you or a loved one has suffered a spinal cord injury due to someone else’s negligence, we encourage you to contact us at (619) 550-1355 for a free consultation. Our experienced attorneys will listen to your story, evaluate your case, and guide you through the legal process with empathy and expertise.