Sadly, current spinal cord injury treatments cannot reverse all of the damage caused by a traumatic spinal cord injury. Researchers are hoping that human embryonic stem cells may regenerate and repair damage following SCI and enable electrical signals to travel between the brain and the rest of the body. However, stem cell therapy is still at an early stage of development, and this type of regenerative medicine may not be available for years to come.

In the meantime, spinal cord injury treatment focuses on preventing further damage and maximum recovery so that each individual suffering from SCI may lead a productive life with as much independence as possible.

Following the initial treatment and diagnosis, ongoing medical care methods and recovery depends on each individual's extent of spinal cord injury. Most Pensacola spinal cord injury patients remain in the hospital for quite some time. This is where a team of neurosurgeons, orthopedic surgeons, and therapists work to address all aspects of the spinal cord injury, including preventing further damage, performing surgery, and providing medicine, physical therapy and emotional support.

Primary Spinal Cord Injury Treatment

Spinal cord injury treatment usually begins with the immobilization of the patient's body, allowing the spine to heal naturally, realign and avoid any additional damage. At the same time, the patient is often given anti-inflammatory drugs, including Medrol, which reduce inflammation and damage to nerve cells. Some patients suffering from incomplete spinal cord injury may experience mild improvement following Medrol or a similar therapy. Spinal cord surgery is frequently performed to repair fractured bones, remove foreign objects and realign the spine to prevent further deformity.

Secondary Spinal Cord Injury Treatment

Once the primary injury is stabilized, medical professionals work to address secondary injuries, including muscle weakness, bowel issues, infections, blood clots and similar conditions associated with spinal cord injury.

Rehabilitation and extensive therapy are often required after injuries associated with spinal cord trauma have been treated. Rehabilitation may take place at the hospital, at an outpatient facility or at an inpatient rehabilitation center. Depending on each individual's needs, rehabilitation teams, which often include physical therapists, occupational therapists, social workers, dieticians, nurses and SCI specialists, work to help each patient regain muscle functions and motor skills. If possible, they help patients learn adaptive techniques for accomplishing daily tasks with maximum independence. Modern technologies, including wheelchairs, computer adaptations and similar electronic devices, are often utilized to increase the patient's functional ability.

Spinal cord injury recovery often includes extensive emotional support because the sudden presence of disability can be frightening and very traumatic for both the patient and his or her family. Emotional recovery may take years, and victims often go through a series of emotional ups and downs, including shock, denial, anger, depression, sadness and finally acceptance.

Traumatic spinal cord injury, especially complete SCI, is a life-changing medical condition that affects an individual's lifestyle, financial situation and personal relationships. Spinal cord injuries frequently occur in car accidents, violent acts, falls and recreational activities. Men between the ages of 15 and 35 are the most frequent victims of spinal cord injury. Although spinal cord injury is not considered a life-threatening condition, death is common among young children who suffer a traumatic spinal cord injury.

Spinal Cord Injury: Legal Recourse

If you or your loved one has suffered a traumatic spinal cord injury due to another party's negligence, it is essential that you seek legal advice from a recognized Pensacola spinal cord injury attorney. The experienced lawyers of Emmanuel, Sheppard & Condon are able to evaluate your case and may be able to help you obtain the compensation you deserve to cover medical bills, ongoing medical care, lost wages, rehabilitation and therapy, as well as emotional pain and suffering. To learn more, please contact Emmanuel, Sheppard & Condon at 850-444-HURT(4878).