New Mexico Spinal Cord Injury Attorneys

Types of Spinal Cord Injuries and Their Impacts

Spinal cord injuries are typically categorized into two main types: complete and incomplete. A complete spinal cord injury results in a total loss of sensation and motor function below the site of injury, signifying that there is no communication between the brain and the areas affected. Individuals with a complete spinal cord injury often face a much more significant and longer-term impact on their mobility and daily life, sometimes requiring full-time personal care and assistance with activities of daily living.

An incomplete spinal cord injury means there is still some degree of signal transmission across the site of the injury. Put another way, those with an incomplete spinal cord injury may retain some movement or sensation below the injury level. Depending on the severity and location of the injury, rehabilitation can lead to significant recovery, although most victims still face lasting challenges. The variation in symptoms and recovery potential vastly increases the complexity of medical treatment and legal considerations following an incomplete spinal cord injury.

The physical impact of spinal cord injuries can also vary based on the location of the injury on the spinal cord. A paraplegic injury, which affects all or part of the trunk, legs, and pelvic organs, usually results from an injury to the thoracic, lumbar, or sacral regions of the spinal cord. Quadriplegia, also known as tetraplegia, results from damage to the cervical portion of the spinal cord and affects all four limbs, as well as the torso. The higher up the spinal column the injury occurs, the more severe the potential impact on the body’s sensory and motor functions.

Spinal cord injuries can have devastating and wide-ranging impacts that extend beyond the immediate physical impairments. The loss of independence can dramatically alter an individual's lifestyle and self-identity. Psychologically, individuals with spinal cord injuries are at a higher risk for depression and anxiety as they adjust to a new reality and altered aspirations. Socially, individuals might experience shifts in relationships and community participation, often needing to advocate for accessibility and inclusion. Economically, the cost of medical care, rehabilitation, and home modifications can be exorbitant, placing a significant strain on individuals and their families. 

The comprehensive nature of these challenges underscores the urgency with which you should seek capable legal representation to secure the resources vital for your long-term support and recovery. Our New Mexico spinal cord injury attorneys recognize what is at stake and can provide the aggressive advocacy you need during this difficult time.