A spinal cord injury is a serious injury that drastically changes life. Damage to the spinal cord often causes permanent paralysis and has a huge impact on daily routine, especially in the Westland region.
What does a spinal cord injury entail?
A spinal cord injury occurs due to damage to the spinal cord, disrupting communication between the brain and the body either partially or completely. The severity and location of the damage determine the effects on the body.
Different levels of spinal cord injury
| Level | Location | Effects |
|---|---|---|
| Cervical (C1-C8) | Neck | Quadriplegia (arms and legs) |
| Thoracic (T1-T12) | Chest | Paraplegia (legs) |
| Lumbar (L1-L5) | Lower back | Paraplegia (partial legs) |
| Sacral (S1-S5) | Sacrum | Limited functional loss |
Complete versus incomplete injury
- Complete spinal cord injury: no functions below the damage
- Incomplete spinal cord injury: some functions remain preserved
Impact on life in Westland
A spinal cord injury affects almost every aspect of existence, from mobility to social interactions.
Physical effects
Direct consequences
- Paralysis of limbs
- Sensory loss
- Problems with bladder and bowels
- Sexual limitations
- Difficulty with temperature regulation
- Persistent pain (neuropathic)
Later complications
- Pressure sores (decubitus)
- Urinary tract infections
- Muscle spasms (spasticity)
- Bone demineralization
- Autonomic dysreflexia (in neck injuries)
- Respiratory problems
Emotional and social consequences
- Feelings of depression and anxiety
- Change in self-image
- Strains in relationships
- Sense of isolation
- Loss of work and financial security
Required support in Westland
Residents of Westland with a spinal cord injury often need extensive assistance and adaptations to live independently.
Resources and adaptations
| Type | Examples | Cost indication |
|---|---|---|
| Wheelchair | Manual wheelchair, powered variant | €2,000 - €50,000 |
| Home modifications | Stairlift, adapted bathroom, wider doors | €50,000 - €200,000+ |
| Vehicle adaptations | Hand controls, wheelchair-accessible vehicle | €10,000 - €100,000 |
| Assistive devices | Hoist, shower chair, catheters | Variable |
Care requirements by injury level
The intensity of care depends on the level of the spinal cord injury and the degree of impairment.
Care hours per level
| Level | Care type | Hours per day |
|---|---|---|
| High cervical (C1-C4) | Continuous care | 24 hours |
| Low cervical (C5-C8) | Extensive ADL support | 8-16 hours |
| High thoracic | Assistance with transfers and household | 4-8 hours |
| Low thoracic/lumbar | Minimal support | 1-4 hours |
Compensation and legal assistance in Westland
In personal injury cases involving spinal cord injuries, high compensations are often awarded. The Juridisch Loket Westland and the District Court of The Hague can provide support in this regard.
Types of compensation
Loss of income
For young victims, the loss of future income can amount to millions, calculated based on expected earnings minus remaining capacity.
Care and nursing costs
Lifelong care costs for severe spinal cord injuries can amount to €3-5 million, depending on life expectancy and care needs.
Costs for adaptations
Regular replacement of assistive devices, home and vehicle adaptations can cost €500,000 to €1 million over a lifetime.
Pain and suffering compensation
For a complete spinal cord injury, amounts between €150,000 and €350,000 or higher are awarded as compensation for suffering.
Advice for victims in Westland
- Seek help immediately from a personal injury lawyer with experience
- Have a rehabilitation physician officially determine your care needs
- Request advances for urgent adaptations
- Account for future reassessment of damages
- Involve local rehabilitation centers in your case
Frequently asked questions
How do I determine if my spinal cord injury is complete or incomplete?
A complete spinal cord injury means there is no function or sensation below the site of damage. In an incomplete injury, some functions or sensations remain intact.