Not all catastrophic injuries are permanent. Those injuries that are not permanent will usually take a very long time-months, or even years-to reach a full recovery. In some cases, especially those involving children, the actual extent of the injury may not be known until much time has passed after the accident. Emotional injuries may also be a problem for a long time after the physical injuries have healed. The affects of a catastrophic injury may linger for a long period of time.