In recent decades, medical innovations have lengthened the life expectancy of individuals with spinal cord injury (SCI). A substantial proportion of reduced mortality can be attributed to advances in treatment for respiratory and cardiac complications associated with SCI. Despite these important advances, the average life expectancy of a person with SCI remains shorter than that...

Traumatic spinal cord injury (SCI) is a devastating, permanent condition that often results in partial or total loss of motor function in some or all of the limbs. Importantly, most injuries that lead to SCI—such as motor vehicle accidents, falls, and gunshot wounds—are preventable. As demographics and other relevant population characteristics change over time, public...

Traumatic spinal cord injury (SCI) affects hundreds of thousands of people worldwide and is associated with permanent, substantial disability. One such outcome is debilitating chronic pain, for which the majority of patients are prescribed opioid medications. Although opioids are an effective management strategy for chronic pain, incorrect dosage or long-term use can lead to depression,...

If you were hurt in an accident that was someone else’s fault, you might be facing extensive medical bills, lost wages, and physical distress. Seeking compensation for your injuries should be one of the first steps to help you cover all accident-related costs. But what happens if your injuries will require long-term medical attention that...

Whiplash injuries occur when a person’s body moves forward rapidly while their head stays in place. Whiplash injuries can severely impact the neck, causing the neck to extend in a “whip-like” motion. In some cases, whiplash accidents can cause the neck to snap or jerk–resulting in serious injuries. What Should I Do After Suffering a...

Over the past 30 years, advocates and policy makers started prevention programs to inform people of the high risk of spinal cord injuries (SCI) from diving into shallow water, defined as less than five feet deep. An estimated 80% of shallow diving cases result in SCI, and a significant portion result in quadriplegia (loss of...