Injuring different areas of the spinal cord can mean a varying level of injury. The Christopher and Dana Reeve Foundation said for some lucky patients, there could be a changing level to where the sufferer can heal. However, those less fortunate may forever have their way of life altered. Patient suffering from disability qualifying conditions should gather their medical records and apply for Social Security Administration disability benefits. While these will not solve all problems, they could go a long way in helping to pay for medical bills and life in general.
“A complete injury is indicated by a total lack of sensory and motor function below the level of injury,” the foundation said. “But the absence of motor and sensory function below the injury site does not necessarily mean that there are no remaining intact axons or nerves crossing the injury site, just that they do not function appropriately following the injury.”
Types of injuries can include:
– Tetraplegia, which can cause paralysis or weakness in both arms and legs
– Thoracic Spinal Cord Injury T1- T12, which can cause loss of function of physical ability
– Lumbar Spinal Cord Injury L1-L5, which can cause paralysis or weakness in the legs, as well as loss of control of many bodily functions and muscles
– Sacral Spinal Cord Injury S1 – S5, which can cause loss of bowel and bladder function, as well as sexual dysfunction
It is important for patients to stay vigilant in visiting their doctor and collecting medical records throughout the process of treatment.
A significant number of disability claims involve some form of injury to the structures of the spinal column. Traumatic injury, as well as degenerative arthritis, are common causes of these medical problems.
The Law Offices of Harold W. Conick and Associates are experts in presenting evidence of such injuries and their debilitating affect on an individuals ability to perform work, as well as daily activities. Claimants are served by their ongoing treatment, including conservative methods of dealing with the problem as well as surgery when warranted.
