Sustaining a spinal cord injury that leads to permanent disability can be life-altering. Not only does it often result in paralysis and loss of sensation, but it also leads to major lifestyle changes. Learning to cope and adapt to your new normal after a spinal cord injury in Alabama takes time, patience, support and access to proper resources. This article provides guidance on navigating life with a permanent disability from a spinal cord injury as an Alabama resident.
Understanding Your New Reality
The extent of your paralysis and loss of sensation depends on where along the spinal cord the injury occurred. Tetraplegia, also known as quadriplegia, results from injury to the cervical spine in the neck and leads to paralysis of all four limbs. Paraplegia is impairment in the thoracic, lumbar or sacral regions of the spinal cord, leading to paralysis of the legs and possibly part of the torso.
In addition to paralysis, you may experience other issues such as chronic pain, pressure sores, bladder and bowel dysfunction, respiratory problems, and sexual dysfunction. It’s critical to understand the extent of your disabilities early on so you can better adapt. Your medical team can assess your injury and explain what limitations to expect. Be sure to ask questions if anything is unclear. The more you understand your diagnosis, the smoother the transition process will be.
Seeking Emotional Support
Coping with permanent disability from a spinal cord injury involves just as much mental adaptation as physical. Allow yourself to grieve the abilities you’ve lost. Seek support from loved ones, join a support group, or speak to a counselor. Share your story with others who are going through similar situations.
Managing stress and depression is just as crucial as the physical rehabilitation. Don’t be afraid to ask your medical providers for mental health referrals or prescription medications if warranted. Surround yourself with a strong support network who can provide emotional support during the ups and downs of your journey.
Finding the Right Rehab Center
Alabama has several renowned spinal cord injury rehab centers staffed by specialists to help you recover, regain function and learn to navigate your disability.
Some top options include:
- Spain Rehabilitation Center – Birmingham
- Lakeshore Rehabilitation Hospital – Birmingham
- Encompass Health Rehabilitation Hospital of Montgomery
Look for CARF accredited facilities with experience treating spinal cord injuries. The right rehab makes a huge difference in your long-term mobility and independence. Tour facilities and ask about the therapies and services offered before selecting one.
Making Home and Vehicle Modifications
To maintain optimal independence at home after rehab, you may need to make modifications like installing ramps, widening doorways for wheelchair access, adding grab bars in bathrooms, and ensuring flooring is wheelchair friendly.
Assess your needs with an occupational therapist. Leverage rehab equipment loans and grants to help offset costs of home modifications. Your rehab center’s social workers can point you toward available resources.
You may also need adaptive driving equipment and wheelchair-accessible vehicle modifications to enable driving. Consult with driving rehabilitation specialists for assessments and equipment recommendations.
Exploring Assistive Technology
A range of assistive technology exists to help amplify your independence and abilities. From voice-activated smart home devices to hands-free computer interfaces, find tools that can make daily living easier.
Your rehab team can introduce you to options during your stay and help you determine what’s right for your unique needs. Alabama assistive technology programs also exist to help you explore and obtain devices. Don’t be afraid to try different solutions to find the best fit.
Accessing Disability Benefits
Navigating the financial impact of permanent disability can be daunting. Consider applying for Social Security Disability Insurance, which pays benefits to those unable to work due to disability. Alabama’s Medicaid program also provides coverage options for those with low income and disabilities.
Vocational rehab programs can potentially help you return to work in some capacity or gain new career skills. Seek counseling on optimizing disability benefits. Having an extra financial safety net makes a big difference.
Building Your New Normal
Adapting fully to permanent disability from a spinal cord injury takes time. Arm yourself with education, support, proper equipment, and financial resources. Surround yourself with positive people who will lift you up along the way.
Stay focused on achieving the most independent life possible. Don’t be afraid to lean on others when needed. With resilience, understanding and proper support, you can establish your new normal.
If you or a loved one has suffered a spinal cord injury in Alabama, contact the experienced personal injury attorneys at Monge & Associates for a free consultation by calling (888) 477-0597. With 32 offices in 19 states, including Alabama, Florida, and Virginia, we have the compassion, experience and resources to help spinal cord injury victims maximize compensation and build a strong future.