A new study has revealed that people in Michigan and other states who suffer from spinal cord injuries are more likely to develop mental disorders. To complete the study, a team examined the insurance claims from a group of people with a spinal cord injury as well as a “control” group of people without an injury. They discovered that people with spinal cord injuries were more likely to suffer from depression, anxiety and other mental illnesses.
In addition to mental health disorders, the study found that people with spinal cord injuries were more likely to develop other physical conditions. Common diseases included diabetes, liver disease, cancer, heart disease, arthritis and more. One physician who was involved with the study said that these conditions are often the result of a sedentary lifestyle. After a serious personal injury like a spinal cord injury, patients can spend weeks or months lying in bed.
Another physician pointed out that previous studies focused on the physical conditions that develop after a patient suffers from a spinal cord injury. However, this study shows that doctors need to pay more attention to the mental health disorders that can develop after an injury as well. The physician noted that understanding the prevalence of mental disorders is key to improving these patients’ quality of life.
How can you pursue legal action after a spinal cord injury?
If you have suffered from a spinal cord injury, you might experience chronic pain, paralysis or permanent disability. A spinal cord injury can severely affect your quality of life. If the injury was caused by another person’s recklessness, you might be able to pursue legal action in court.
For assistance with your case, you might wish to hire an attorney. An attorney may help collect evidence to prove the severity of your condition and the fact that it was caused by another person’s negligence.
