Spinal cord injuries effect thousands of people every year. The leading cause of spinal cord injuries in the US is car accidents. Although violence, falls, and athletic injuries also can result in a serious spinal cord injury or brain injury.

The affects of spinal cord injuries depend on the location and the severity of the injury. Usually, some swelling occurs along the spinal cord immediately and affects the entire body. Rarely does the body maintain all functional ability after sustaining an injury to the spine. However, some function may be regained over time. Spinal cord injuries can cause physical, emotional and cognitive injuries. There is currently no cure for the severe effects of spinal cord injuries.

Spinal cord injuries affect not only individuals, but their entire families. Life is changed dramatically after a major injury. Emotional, physical, psychological and financial changes can be devastating for everyone in the family. Loss of wages, medical expenses and insurance claims can cause further emotional stress and problems.