The long-term impacts of a spinal cord injury vary depending on the severity and location of the damage. In some cases, the injury will lead to permanent alterations in a person’s mobility, strength, flexibility, feeling, and bodily functions. In these situations, the person may never be able to become as independent as they once were. Unfortunately, some may need permanent, consistent medical monitoring.
Even if the person is able to recover, long-term impacts are still to be expected. More moderate injuries that lead to a semi-full recovery can leave the person at a significant risk of future injuries, fractures, and osteoporosis. Muscle tone could be affected for a significant length of time, and the person could also experience muscle spasms and chronic pain.