Spinal cord injuries, otherwise known as SCIs, can happen after motorcycle crashes. However, the repercussions of an SCI may not show up right away.
In contrast to injuries that immediately seem obvious, SCIs can initially seem subtle.
Struggling to notice the immediate pain
Shock, adrenaline rushes or other factors might mask the injury’s severity. This means the true extent may only show up over time as the body’s protective mechanisms go away.
Behind the scenes, at the cellular level, chaos ensues after an SCI. The body’s communication network faces disruptions in signaling and starts many different events, including inflammation and cell death. The body’s attempt to repair itself can temporarily hide the true extent of the damage, contributing to the slow onset of symptoms.
Failing to stay aware
Not correctly identifying signs of an SCI can also slow people down. Numbness, tingling, weakness or changes in bowel or bladder function need to stay in people’s minds. These are all common signs of an underlying SCI.
Wondering what to do next
For those dealing with delayed-onset SCIs, the road to rehabilitation can prove especially tough. The long time it takes to get a diagnosis often translates to a delay in starting important treatments and therapy. Additionally, individuals may have a longer recovery journey where they need specific rehabilitation to address both immediate and long-term consequences.
There are 54 cases of SCIs per 1 million individuals in America every year as of 2020. The significance of early detection is important for both affected people and the healthcare professionals tasked with their care.
