600+ five star reviewsSpinal cord injuries can lead to a range of physical challenges, including chronic pain that extends beyond the site of the injury. While some pain is expected, certain pain syndromes develop that are less understood and can be difficult to manage. These conditions can have a lasting impact on daily life, making it important to recognize their signs and explore available treatment options as a spinal cord injury lawyer knows all too well.
Neuropathic Pain That Persists Beyond The Injury Site
Neuropathic pain occurs when damaged nerves send incorrect signals to the brain. This type of pain is common after a spinal cord injury, but in some cases, it spreads to unaffected areas of the body. This condition, known as central pain syndrome, can create intense burning or stabbing sensations. Since traditional pain medications may not provide relief, treatment often involves a combination of physical therapy, nerve blocks, and alternative approaches like electrical stimulation. This type of pain often affects a person’s life in every aspect, particularly making it difficult to work which is why consulting a lawyer after an injury is so important to get the compensation you need and deserve.
Phantom Pain That Feels Like A Missing Limb Or Body Part
Phantom limb pain is often associated with amputations, but it can also affect individuals with spinal cord injuries. Some people experience pain in a limb or body part that no longer has normal sensory input. The brain misinterprets signals, leading to discomfort that feels as real as pain from an actual injury. Mirror therapy, nerve modulation, and certain medications can help manage these symptoms.
Allodynia Causing Severe Pain From Light Touch
Allodynia is a condition where even the slightest touch or temperature change causes intense pain. This can make everyday activities such as getting dressed or feeling a breeze unbearable. Allodynia is often linked to nerve damage and heightened pain sensitivity. Treatment may include desensitization therapy, medication, and specialized pain management techniques to help reduce overactive nerve responses.
Syringomyelia Leading To Unpredictable Pain Episodes
Syringomyelia is a rare condition that develops when a fluid-filled cyst forms within the spinal cord. As the cyst expands, it can cause pressure on nerves, resulting in sharp pain, muscle weakness, and even loss of function in certain areas of the body. Surgery is sometimes needed to relieve pressure, but in mild cases, monitoring and pain management strategies may be sufficient. In severe cases, a spinal injuries lawyer is imperative as you will need to pay for ongoing medical coverage, and if the injury was not your fault, then the at-fault party should cover those costs.
Referred Pain That Confuses The Body’s Sensory Signals
Referred pain occurs when pain is felt in a different part of the body than where the injury is located. For instance, a spinal cord injury may cause discomfort in the arms, legs, or chest despite no direct damage to those areas. This can be frustrating and difficult to diagnose. Physical therapy, posture adjustments, and targeted treatments often help in reducing discomfort.
Muscle Spasms That Mimic Severe Pain Conditions
Spinal cord injuries can cause involuntary muscle spasms, which may feel like painful cramping or tightening. These spasms can be mistaken for other pain syndromes, leading to misdiagnosis. Treatments such as muscle relaxants, stretching exercises, and nerve treatments can provide relief and improve mobility.
Seeking Legal Support For Spinal Cord Injury-Related Pain
Chronic pain after a spinal cord injury can significantly affect quality of life, work, and daily activities. Attorneys like those at Mishkind Kulwicki Law Co., L.P.A. can attest to the challenges individuals face when dealing with these conditions. If an injury was caused by negligence, a lawyer may be able to help pursue compensation for medical care, lost wages, and long-term pain management needs. Unfortunately because the spine is so integral to the body, these cases are often difficult and it is not recommended that you go it alone.
Pain syndromes after a spinal cord injury can be difficult to predict and manage, but recognizing their patterns can lead to better treatment approaches. If you or a loved one is dealing with unusual pain after an injury, seeking medical care and legal guidance can be important steps.
