Spinal Cord

There are nearly 1 in 50 people living with paralysis in the United States, - approximately 6 million people. Almost 1.3 million of those are spinal cord injured. The cause of spinal cord injuries is usually some form of trauma, a sudden blow or impact to the spine that fractures or dislocates the vertebrae.

Injuries to the spinal cord which consists of a bundle of nerves that runs from the base of the brain and down the back, can result in a loss of sensation and movement including paralysis of all four limbs (quadriplegia), and paralysis of the lower half of the body (paraplegia),

Other health problems can include bladder and bowel complications, inability to regulate blood pressure, reduced control of body temperature, chronic pain and increased susceptibility to respiratory disease. The victims also tend to have shorter lifespans.

Auto accidents are the most frequent cause of injury to the spine, accounting for nearly 47% of all spinal cord injuries. Falls come in second at 23%, followed by violence at 14% and sports at 9% according to one study.

In some cases the injury is the fault of another person. The driver of a car or truck, a defective product, neglected property or any of a number of circumstances. The loss of mobility and quality of life can be overwhelming. Loss of income, long term medical treatments and therapy, changes in lifestyle are stressful for not only you but also for your loved ones.