Treating spinal cord injuries

In an instant, a fall from a height, an auto collision or other such accidents may lead to serious injuries, such as spinal cord injuries. Potentially having life-changing effects, SCIs commonly need immediate, emergent medical treatment, as well as ongoing care.

Those who have suffered spinal cord injuries and their loved ones often find it beneficial to understand the treatment options their health care teams may pursue.

Treating acute spinal cord injuries

According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, spinal cord injuries typically require emergency medical attention. At an accident scene, emergency services professionals will work to immobilize the spine to avoid further or additional injury and to transport the patient to a hospital for further care.

Upon reaching the hospital, the patient’s care will continue to focus on spinal immobilization. Additionally, health care providers often aim to ensure people with SCIs have the ability to breathe and begin working to limit the effects and complications resulting from these injuries. To this end, patients may undergo treatments such as surgery or traction, as well as receive medications.

Caring for long-term for SCIs

According to Johns Hopkins Medicine, long-term care for SCIs involves ongoing rehabilitation, as well as follow-up care. Physical and occupational therapies help SCI patients retain their muscle structure, prevent muscle wasting and retrain their muscles. Through such therapies, people may learn adaptive techniques and other things to help them in their daily lives after suffering SCIs. In addition to rehabilitative care, patients’ health care teams also commonly focus on preventing and treating secondary complications related to spinal cord injuries.

Suffering an SCI has a profound effect on many who experience such trauma. When these injuries result from the negligence or recklessness of others, the people harmed may consider pursuing their options to recover compensation for their injury-associated losses.