The spinal cord is a vital component of your central nervous system that serves as a pathway for messages between the brain and the rest of the body. When spinal cord damage occurs in an event such as a Georgia car crash, the impact can be severe and life-changing. Victims can suffer several effects, including physical, sensory and emotional changes.
Physical effects
One of the most immediate and obvious effects of spinal cord injuries is a loss of mobility. Depending on how severe the injury is, a person may experience partial or complete paralysis, which can affect their ability to move their arms, legs and other parts of their body. This can also lead to muscle atrophy, weakness and loss of sensation.
Spinal cord injuries can also cause respiratory problems, such as difficulty breathing or maintaining adequate oxygen levels, as the muscles responsible for breathing can suffer.
Sensory effects
When the spinal cord is damaged, a person may experience a range of sensory changes, including loss of sensation, altered sensation or hyper-sensitivity. These changes can affect a person’s ability to perceive touch, temperature and pain, and can make it difficult to carry out everyday activities.
Emotional effects
Coping with the emotional challenges can be as challenging as dealing with many of the physical effects. Many spinal cord injury patients may experience depression, anxiety or mood swings. The emotional impact of a spinal cord injury can also extend to a person’s social and interpersonal relationships, as they may struggle to adjust to their new way of life.
Treatment and management
While there is currently no cure for spinal cord injuries, there are a variety of treatment options that can help manage symptoms and improve the sufferer’s quality of life. These may include medications, physical therapy, occupational therapy and assistive devices such as wheelchairs or braces. Counseling or support groups may also prove helpful for coping with the injury’s emotional impact.