What Kinds Of Complications Can Spinal Cord Injuries Lead To?

On behalf of Lovett Law Firm posted in Spinal Cord Injuries on Thursday, April 14, 2016.

When you suffer from a spinal cord injury, there are some serious complications that you may face. These can vary depending on your circumstances, but it’s important to remember to account for these injuries in any settlement or legal claim against the person responsible for your injuries.

What are some common incontinence issues after a spinal cord injury?

Some common incontinence issues include losing control of your bladder or suffering from the altered movement of your bowels. For example, the bladder may not be able to recognize when it’s full, leading to more urinary tract infections. A loss of bowel control could end up resulting in constipation or other side effects.

Is skin always numb after a spinal cord injury?

No. Sometimes, skin sensations vary widely from numbness to burning, tingling or cold sensations. If you have lost most of the sensation, then your skin will have trouble telling the brain if it’s too hot, cold or in pain. This makes patients more likely to develop pressure sores and other issues.

Is the respiratory system affected by a spinal cord injury?

It can be, depending on where your injury is. If you have an injury that affects your abdominal muscles, for instance, you may struggle to cough. If you can’t cough or breathe correctly, you could struggle with additional complications like pneumonia.

When you suffer from a spinal cord injury, your overall wellness may decline. You will likely lose your muscle tone below the point of injury, and you may suffer from muscle atrophy. To avoid this, many patients use ongoing rehabilitative therapies.

Source: Mayo Clinic, “Complications,” accessed April 14, 2016