A spinal cord injury can affect almost every single part of your life. Everyday tasks may become more difficult, returning to work may not be possible right away and the road to recovery can look very different from what you expected.
On top of these difficult changes, you may be wondering how you will be able to pay for everything. When medical bills keep coming and you are unable to earn your usual income, thinking about the future can feel overwhelming.
Understanding the financial impact of a spinal cord injury
A spinal cord injury occurs when there is damage to the spinal cord. The spinal cord is a long, cylinder-shaped bundle of nerve tissue and cells that runs from the base of your brainstem down through the center of the spine. Working together with the brain, the spinal cord makes up the central nervous system, acting as the main communication pathway between your brain and the rest of your body. Depending on the location and severity of the injury, you may experience lasting changes in strength, sensation or other bodily functions. In some cases, the damage can also cause paralysis or the loss of muscle function in parts of your body.
The costs of a spinal cord injury often continue long after you leave the hospital. You may need regular medical appointments, prescription medications and physical therapy for months or even years. Depending on your injury, you may also need a wheelchair or other mobility device to help you get around. These expenses can add up quickly, especially if you are already struggling to pay your bills or have fallen behind on other household expenses.
Missing work can create another financial challenge. Depending on the severity of your injury, you may need months to recover, reduce your hours or leave your job altogether. Even if you return to work, you may not be able to earn what you did before the accident. When looking at the long-term costs of your injury, it is important to consider not only the bills you have today but also the income and support you may need in the years ahead.
Recovering from a spinal cord injury is difficult enough without the added worry of how you will afford the care you need. If you are struggling with these expenses, speaking with a qualified legal professional can help you better understand your rights and the options available to you.