A spinal cord injury is a very common consequence of car accidents or falls and it can change one's life in many different ways due to certain changes or loss in sensation or movement control in the affected parts of the body. With a spinal cord injury, the first thing to remember is to avoid moving the victim. Immobilizing the person must be a priority to ensure that no further damage is done to the spine.
Immediate medical attention is required for spinal cord injury. If you suspect a person to have sustained an injury to the spine, call the hospital immediately. To know the common symptoms of spinal cord injury can help save a life and even save them from sustaining more injuries.
A person who is admitted to the hospital for spinal cord injury will typically receive any of the following treatments:
Medication
Spinal cord injury may cause inflammation around the spine that can cause complications in nearby organs and nerve damage. Medications, such as Methylprednisolone, are usually given to decrease inflammation and prevent or reduce nerve damage. If given within eight hours of the injury, medications can improve conditions and prevent further damage to the spine and the rest of the body.
Immobilization
When a person sustains spinal cord injury, he or she must never be moved. Immobilization is crucial to ensure that the spine does not incur more damage that can be fatal to the victim. You can place towels or pillows on either sides of the neck and head to ensure that there is no movement while help arrives.
Surgery
Usually, surgery is required in spinal cord injury to remove fractured vertebrae or herniated disks. It is also done to remove fragments of bones or other objects to remove the pressure from the spine. In other cases, surgery is required to stabilize the spine and prevent deformities and pain in the future.
Experimental Treatments
Nowadays, scientists are researching for other forms of treatment for spinal cord injury. Research is being done to discover ways to stop cell death, reduce inflammation and boost nerve regeneration.
Furthermore, new technologies have become available tom improve the lives of people with spinal injury. Since most of the patients have impaired motor and sensory functions, these new technologies can help these people lead independent lives. Examples of such technologies are modern wheelchairs of various functionality and designs, electrical stimulation devices and EADL (electronic aid to daily living).
Without a way to reverse the effects of spinal cord injury, it is best to avoid activities that can cause injuries to the spine. If an accident happens, knowing the symptoms of spinal cord injury will be of tremendous help in preventing further damage.
If you suffer from any kind of injury to your spinal cord and need rehabilitation, any of these treatments can be an excellent first step to recovery.
