In the 1990s very few people had incomplete spinal cord injuries, because at the time, that type of injury lead to a complete loss of motor functions and sensitivity in the affected area.
With medical progress and current treatments, fractures and other spinal injuries have fewer complications and consequences, which is why there are now more incomplete spinal cord injuries where motor function and sensitivity are partially preserved.
Although this is good news, the after-effects and treatments of incomplete spinal cord injuries remain misunderstood compared to what we know about complete spinal cord injuries, especially in the long term. Therefore, they might not be taken so seriously.
Some healthcare professionals and insurance providers don’t quite understand incomplete injuries, and don’t realize that they also lead to a considerable loss of sensitivity, control, and motor functions.
Because they don’t have as much of an impact on motor functions, incomplete injuries may lead to confusion. Some might say: “You should feel lucky, it could’ve been worse!” Indeed, but it could have been better as well.
People with an incomplete injury have their own set of challenges because of a lack of support and specialized care, and because some think that these people should be able to lead a normal life.
Studies show that three years after the accident, people with an incomplete spinal cord injury (Refers to damage to the spinal medulla. ) have a lower self-esteem and sense of well-being than those with a complete injury, even if they have higher motor functions.
This chapter is therefore intended to help people with an incomplete spinal cord injury (Refers to damage to the spinal medulla. ) understand the situation and challenges that they can expect, and know what type of support is available.