A spinal cord injury (SCI) is undoubtedly a life-altering occurrence, turning known worlds upside down in the blink of an eye. Survivors are abruptly challenged with a new reality, wherein their physical limitations redefine daily experiences and future prospects. However, this journey—intimidating as it may appear—also unfolds into a testament of tenacity and courage, an expedition where reinventing the outlook to life becomes equally essential as medical treatments and rehabilitation.
Transitioning into this new phase post-SCI necessitates not just adapting to a new way of physical functioning but also embracing resilience at each step. Despite the rigors and uncertainties inherent to the aftermath, life post-injury can unfold into a meaningful experience enriched with renewed strength and growth. Let us begin shedding light on significant aspects pivotal to adapting to life after a spinal cord injury.
Table of Contents
Regular exercise
Regular exercise is essential for staying fit and healthy after a spinal cord injury. A physical therapist (pt) or an occupational therapist (OT) can help you improve mobility, restore lost function, and prevent any complications that can potentially occur years down the line. Although these therapists offer similar approaches to rehabilitation, there are some key differences between ot vs pt. Physical therapy programs typically include a combination of cardiovascular exercise, strength training, mobility training, respiratory conditioning, and light stretching. During the first few stages of rehabilitation, you’ll mostly focus on maintaining and strengthening muscle function, improving fine motor skills, and practicing performing everyday activities. Additionally, you’ll be taught how to use modern technologies and devices to help you live as independently as possible.
Helpful devices
Medical devices can help people with spinal cord injuries to live a more independent and mobile lifestyle at home and at work. For example, wheelchairs are now design to be lighter and easy to maneuver; they can help people with spinal cord injuries move around in comfort. Electric wheelchairs can also help people to travel over rough ground, ascend stairs, and elevate to reach high places. Additionally, electronic devices can also aid everyday living. Voice recognition devices, for example, can be used to help people with limited hand function independently operate electronic devices via voice commands. Advanced software is able to learn the individual way each user talks in order to best optimize how the technology responds to their verbal commands and transcribes their speech.
Pursuing financial compensation
Spinal cord injuries can impact all aspects of life. In addition to emotional and physical pain, they also result in medical bills, expensive medical equipment (like wheelchairs, walkers and crutches), lost wages and time off work, rehabilitation appointments, physical therapy, and other expenses. In cases caused by the negligence of another party, a spinal injury lawyer can help injured people recover compensation to pay for these expenses and move forward with life. Spinal cord injury cases are complex, and an experienced lawyer can conduct a comprehensive investigation to find out and prove the negligence that resulted in the injury. With the right legal help, you have the best chances of a fair settlement.
Fortunately, it’s possible for many people to go on to live productive and satisfying lives after a spinal cord injury; which includes returning to your favorite hobbies, social and physical activities, and school or work. With physical therapy, assistive devices and legal help, people with spinal cord injuries can successfully enjoy a high quality of life.
Conclusion
Adapting to life after a spinal cord injury is undeniably a challenging journey, one that calls for immense courage and resilience. Still, it’s crucial to remember that the changes brought about by an SCI do not define your potential nor do they limit your capability to live a fulfilling life.
The human spirit is powerful, capable of adapting and thriving in the face of adversity. Your courage, strength, and the unwavering willpower to relearn, rediscover, and redefine life post-injury speak volumes of your resilience.
