MADD TIMES September 2022

Spinal cord injury (SCI) is an injury to the spinal cord that results in temporary or permanent changes in the spinal cord’s normal motor, sensory, or autonomic function. People who sustain a spinal cord injury often have permanent and profound neurologic deficits and accompanying disability. Spinal cord injury can result in paralysis of the muscles used for breathing; paralysis and/or loss of feeling in all or some of the trunk, arms, and legs; weakness; numbness; loss of bowel and bladder control; and numerous secondary conditions including respiratory problems, pressure sores, and sometimes fatal spikes in blood pressure. For those who survive a spinal cord injury, the most important element of their care becomes preventing complications resulting from the injury, and the prevention of complications related to the disability. There are approximately 17,000 new spinal cord injuries in the United States each year. Vehicle crashes are currently the leading cause of injury, followed by falls, acts of violence (primarily gunshot wounds), and sports/recreation activities. Our community is stronger when it comes together to educate the public on the challenges of living with spinal cord injury (SCI). Despite living with SCI, we believe a full, productive, and rewarding life is within the reach of anyone with the strength to believe it and the courage to make it happen.

For more information visit: https://unitedspinal.org/ https://helphopelive.org/

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