Breakthrough Treatment for Spinal Cord Injuries Offers New Hope

According to the American Association of Neurological Surgeons (AANS), an average of 17,000 new spinal cord injuries occur every year in the United States. For decades, there has been little hope for spinal cord injuries treatment and overcoming paralysis; however, Epidural Stimulation is changing the game for some living with paraplegia and quadriplegia.

Understanding Spinal Cord Injuries

Trauma to the vertebral column typically results in paralysis as the spinal cord becomes unable to send and receive signals to the brain and body systems that control motion, sensory, and automatic functions.

A complete spinal cord injury results in total loss of all motor and sensory function below the level of the spinal cord where the injury occurred. Around half of all spinal cord injuries are complete. In cases of incomplete spinal cord injury, some function still remains below the injury. Complete or incomplete, spinal cord injuries are severe and life-altering for both patient and loved ones.

Spinal Cord Injury Treatment

After experiencing trauma to the spinal cord region, the injured party should seek medical attention immediately. Signs of spinal cord injuries include but are not limited to:

• Extreme pressure/and or pain in the neck, head, or back
• Partial or complete loss of control over any body part
• Tingling in the hands, feet, fingers, or toes
• Impaired breathing
• Incontinence or retention
• Pressure or pain in the thorax

For years, the progress and recovery of spinal cord injuries have offered little hope in significantly improving a patient’s condition. Routine care typically includes intensive care unit treatment and monitoring, and – depending on the physician and injury – even invasive surgery. After these stages, few treatment options beyond standard rehabilitation services are left for spine injury patients and their loved ones.

Epidural Stimulation Treatment

The introduction of epidural stimulation treatment has given spinal cord injury patients and their loved ones an optimistic new outlook on their care. Epidural stimulation treatment involves implanting a device near the injured area that mimics the electronic signals the brain sends to control movement, sensory, and automatic functions.

In addition to regaining limb movement, this treatment can also improve body temperature regulation, bladder and bowl control, and blood pressure levels. Patients undergoing epidural stimulation treatment have begun to see positive signs such as regaining movement of limbs. Possible improvements associated with epidural stimulation include:

• Ability to stand and take assisted steps
• Improved stamina and strength
• Bladder and bowel control
• Enhanced sensation
• Relief from neuropathic pain
• Body temperature regulation

Spinal Cord Injury Attorneys

Spinal cord injury patients and their loved ones understand better than anyone the complicated journey of recovery associated with paralysis. Their focus should be on healing and improving quality of life; however, the current Texas statute of limitations for many spinal cord injury claims is two years. This means you have two years from the date of injury to file a lawsuit against the responsible parties. If you or a loved one suffered a paralyzing injury due to the negligence of another, the paralysis attorneys at Craft Law Firm can help. Contact our legal team today for a free consultation of your case.