Frequently Asked Questions - Paraplegia

Q: What is paraplegia?

A: Paraplegia is a loss of the ability to move and/or feel both legs and generally, the lower trunk (stomach area and lower back). (Source: Medfriendly.com)

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Q: How many people suffer a spinal cord injury each year?

A: It is estimated that the annual incidence of spinal cord injury (SCI), not including those who die at the scenes of accidents, is about 40 cases per million population in the U.S. each year, or about 12,000 new cases each year. (Source: National Spinal Cord Injury Statistical Center)

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Q: What are some of the symptoms associated with a spinal cord injury?

A: Spinal cord injuries of any kind may result in one or more of the following signs and symptoms:

• Pain or an intense stinging sensation caused by damage to the nerve fibers in your spinal cord
• Loss of movement
• Loss of sensation, including the ability to feel heat, cold and touch
• Loss of bowel or bladder control
• Exaggerated reflex activities or spasms
• Changes in sexual function, sexual sensitivity and fertility
• Difficulty breathing, coughing or clearing secretions from your lungs

(Source: Wheelchair Nation)

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Q: What is the prognosis for a person who suffered a spinal cord injury?

A: The types of disability associated with SCI vary greatly depending on the severity of the injury, the segment of the spinal cord at which the injury occurs, and which nerve fibers are damaged. Most people with SCI regain some functions between a week and 6 months after injury, but the likelihood of spontaneous recovery diminishes after 6 months. Rehabilitation strategies can minimize long-term disability. (Source: Spinal Cord Injury Information Pages)

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Q: Why do I need a lawyer if I’ve been stricken with paraplegia?

A: You need a lawyer:

1. to protect the rights of the abused and neglected
2. to make sure your specific situation is investigated to the fullest
3. to hold accountable anyone whose negligence caused your paraplegia
4. to help you get the compensation you need to get your life back on track as quickly as possible.