A spinal injury is traumatic damage to the spine that can result in a variety of physical and neurological conditions. It can be caused by a traumatic event such as a fall, motor vehicle accident, or sports-related injury, or by medical conditions such as cancer, infection, or degenerative diseases. Spine injuries can vary in severity, but they all typically involve mobility loss, with some injuries leaving individuals completely immobile. Knowing how to treat these injuries and what you can do to improve your quality of life is crucial and there are resources available to help. If you’re in need of advice, read on to find out how to cope with a spinal injury that leaves you immobile.
How can you cope with a spinal injury that leaves you immobile?
Inpatient rehab can be a critical part of the recovery process for those who have suffered a spinal cord injury. The level of care and expertise provided by inpatient rehab facilities can improve a patient’s quality of life, help them to gain independence, and even restore some of their lost function. Inpatient rehabilitation usually involves a team of medical professionals including physical therapists, occupational therapists, and speech-language pathologists. The team works together to create and implement an individualized plan of care for each patient.
If you suffer a spinal cord injury, you will likely need to remodel your home to make it accessible and allow you to live a comfortable life. The bathroom can be particularly dangerous, so you should talk to a contractor, like this one that specializes in Austin bathroom remodeling. Try to choose a flooring material that is slip-resistant, as this can reduce the risk of slips and falls. A grab bar is another common addition, though its usefulness will depend on a person’s level of mobility. Fixtures also need to be placed low enough for access if an individual is in a wheelchair.
Once you have identified the modifications you need to make, you should plan out the changes. This will involve deciding on the materials you need for the job, as well as the estimated costs. In some cases, there may be grants or other forms of financial assistance available to assist you with the costs of remodeling.
What can you do to take better care of yourself after a spinal cord injury?
Now that you know a little more about practical ways to manage your injury, let’s talk about some other ways you can take care of yourself in the aftermath of a spinal cord injury. For example, therapy can be an incredibly beneficial tool for individuals who have suffered a spinal cord injury. Spinal cord injuries can be life-altering, and the emotional and psychological repercussions of such an injury can be just as devastating as the physical ones. A therapist can provide a safe space for individuals to work through the trauma of their injury.
Establishing a support network is another key part of coping with a spinal injury that leaves you immobile. This can include family, friends, and medical professionals who provide assistance. It is also valuable to have someone close by who understands your condition and can offer advice on how best to manage it in everyday life. Enlisting additional resources from local organizations specializing in spinal injuries may help as they are likely more knowledgeable about services within the community (e.g., transportation, and financial aid).
When a spinal injury leaves you immobile, it can be a devastating experience, but there are ways to cope with this life-changing event, including managing the physical pain, learning how to adjust to major life changes, and finding ways to stay as independent as possible. You can further improve your comfort and quality of life by investing in home remodeling, working with a therapist, and building a support network for yourself that you can rely on when things get tough. If you follow the advice in this article, you can get on the road to recovery and create a living environment that is safer and more comfortable.
