Around the world, 780,000 people live with spinal cord injuries. With such a broad range of people living with spinal cord injuries, there are a lot of misconceptions about living with one.
Read on to learn about the common spinal cord injury myths and why they aren’t true or true to a certain extent. You can learn the truth behind these myths and others as you continue to live with your injury.
Results in Complete Paralysis
A common myth about spinal cord injuries is that all of them will result in complete paralysis. This simply isn’t true.
After a spinal cord injury, some individuals will experience no paralysis at all. Others may experience some degree of paralysis, depending on the severity of their injury and the severity of their symptoms.
Scientists have recently discovered different types of spinal cord injuries, with each type having its own unique set of symptoms. This means that some people may have no movement in their legs or arms. Others may only have limited or partial paralysis in their arms and legs.
Caused by Trauma
While traumatic events such as car accidents, falls, and sports-related injuries are the most common causes of spinal cord injuries, these events aren’t always responsible.
In fact, spinal cord injuries can also be caused by medical conditions such as tumors, spinal stenosis, and arteriovenous malformation. These conditions can cause complications that lead to a spinal cord injury.
If you’re curious about the symptoms, you can get a good idea through the patient symptom quiz.
Spinal Cord Injuries Are Permanent
Although the effects of a spinal cord injury can be long-lasting, advances in rehabilitation therapies can improve spinal cord injury outcomes.
A damaged spinal cord can regain a certain degree of function with the right medical attention. In some cases, surgical interventions can help to restore some independence in movement and activities of daily living.
People With Spinal Cord Injuries Become Dependent
People with spinal cord injuries are capable of living a healthy, long, and independent life. Advances in medical technology have significantly improved the quality of life.
With the right care and support, those who have sustained a spinal cord injury can still enjoy a full and satisfying life. People with spinal cord injuries should not be held back or limited in their opportunities.
Unable to Participate in Physical Activities
One popular myth about spinal cord injuries is that wheelchair users are unable to participate in sports and physical activities. This is simply untrue. Technological advancement has allowed wheelchair users to participate in many different sports.
Not only do these activities allow wheelchair users to enjoy sports, but they also promote health and well-being. Adaptive equipment and assistive technology have created recreational opportunities for wheelchair users to:
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- Explore the outdoors
- Compete in marathons
- Swimming
- Sailing
There is no doubt that wheelchair users can remain active and enjoy a variety of sports.
Debunking the Spinal Cord Injury Myths
Spinal cord injuries are serious and should be managed with attention and care. It is important to be aware of the facts and to be proactive in seeking treatment, no matter how small the injury.
Spinal cord injury myths should never be the basis for self-diagnosis. Professional healthcare can provide the best advice and action plan for any SCI and should be consulted to ensure optimal health.
For more information, reach out to your local medical provider.
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