quadriplegia

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quadriplegia

Quadriplegia is paralysis that affects the lower and upper extremities and most, or all, of the trunk. Quadriplegia is a type of spinal cord injury that can occur as a result of physical injury or certain diseases. The spine is responsible for transmitting messages from the brain to the rest of the body and vice versa. A health spinal cord coordinates movement and sensation throughout the body. When the spinal cord is damaged around the neck level, the resulting injury is often quadriplegia, also called tetraplegia. People with quadriplegia may lose partial or complete feeling and movement in their legs, arms, and trunk.

The physical injuries that can result in quadriplegia include motor vehicle accidents, sports injuries, slip and fall accidents, and violence. Tumors and other diseases may also lead to quadriplegia. The initial symptoms of quadriplegia include: muscle limpness, loss of bowel or bladder control, low blood pressure, trouble breathing, or the inability to move or feel anything below the damaged area. Quadriplegia is also associated with cognitive impairment, and sensory problems.

The aftermath of an accident that causes quadriplegia can be an intensely traumatic experience for a victim and his/her loved ones. If you are the victim, or know someone with quadriplegia, you are not alone. Ten thousand Americans suffer injury or disease that leads to quadriplegia every year. Fortunately, quadriplegia can be managed through a comprehensive rehabilitation program and improvements can often be made in time.

After you have been stabilized following a spinal cord injury, you will require long term comprehensive care to manage your quadriplegia. Fortunately there are a team of caregivers who are dedicated to helping you manage and live with quadriplegia. These professionals can include your primary care physician, neurologists, nurses, psychologists, physical and occupational therapists, respiratory therapists, social workers, case managers, and more.

There are a number of potential treatment methods that may be employed to manage and improve your quadriplegia. New technological advances in this field of medicine are developed frequently, so the ability to manage quadriplegia is ever-improving. Rehabilitation programs can include: bowel and bladder programs, respiratory assistance, braces and other mechanical support devices, mental heath therapy, physical and occupational therapy, surgery, medications, and more.

If you or a loved one has been in an accident that resulted in quadriplegia, it can be extremely beneficial to speak with a qualified attorney at your earliest convenience. Many accidents that cause quadriplegia are the result of another party’s intentional wrongdoing or negligence. An experienced attorney can evaluate your case to determine your legal rights and options in a case to seek compensation for your losses and suffering. If you would like to learn more about your legal rights and options, please contact us to speak with an intelligent and investigative attorney in your area who has experience protecting the interests of quadriplegia victims and their families.