Spinal Cord Injury

Spinal cord injuries are devastating and life-altering conditions that occur when there is damage to the spinal cord or the nerves at the base of the spinal canal. These injuries can result in permanent changes in sensation, strength, and other bodily functions below the site of the injury. Spinal cord injuries can occur due to various causes, including car accidents, falls, sports injuries, and medical malpractice.

Types of Spinal Cord Injuries

Spinal cord injuries can be categorized into two main types:

• Complete Spinal Cord Injury: In a complete spinal cord injury, there is a total loss of sensory and motor function below the level of the injury. This means that individuals with a complete spinal cord injury may experience paralysis or loss of sensation in both sides of their body.

• Incomplete Spinal Cord Injury: An incomplete spinal cord injury involves partial damage to the spinal cord, resulting in varying degrees of sensory and motor function below the level of the injury. Individuals with an incomplete spinal cord injury may retain some sensation or movement in certain parts of their body.

These injuries can result from various factors and causes, including:

• Traumatic Accidents: Spinal cord injuries commonly occur due to traumatic accidents, such as car accidents, motorcycle collisions, falls from heights, sports-related injuries, and acts of violence. The sudden impact or force on the spine can lead to fractures, dislocations, or compression of the spinal cord.

• Medical Malpractice: In some cases, spinal cord injuries can be caused by medical negligence or errors during surgical procedures, especially those involving the spine or spinal cord. Mistakes in anesthesia administration, surgical techniques, or post-operative care can result in severe damage to the spinal cord.

• Sports and Recreational Activities: Participating in high-impact sports or engaging in recreational activities without proper safety precautions can put individuals at risk of spinal cord injuries. Activities such as football, rugby, diving, skiing, and extreme sports carry a higher potential for accidents that may result in spinal cord damage.

• Work-Related Accidents: Some occupations involve inherent risks that can lead to spinal cord injuries. Construction site accidents, falls from heights, industrial accidents, and machinery malfunctions are examples of work-related incidents that can cause severe spinal cord damage.

Physical and Emotional Impact

Spinal cord injuries have profound physical and emotional impacts on individuals. Physically, these injuries can lead to paralysis, loss of sensation, muscle weakness, difficulty breathing, bladder and bowel dysfunction, and sexual dysfunction. The severity of these effects depends on the level and extent of the spinal cord injury.

Emotionally, spinal cord injuries can cause significant emotional distress, depression, anxiety, and frustration due to the sudden change in lifestyle and loss of independence. Individuals may also experience challenges in adapting to their new physical limitations and require extensive emotional support and counseling.

Rehabilitation and Assistive Devices

Rehabilitation plays a vital role in helping individuals with spinal cord injuries maximize their independence and improve their quality of life. Physical therapy, occupational therapy, and other rehabilitation techniques are crucial in enhancing mobility, strength, and daily living skills. Assistive devices such as wheelchairs, braces, and specialized equipment can also aid in improving mobility and accessibility.

Let Injury Legal Center Help

Spinal cord injuries caused by accidents or medical negligence may entitle the individual to seek legal recourse and pursue compensation for their losses. Injury Legal Center is here to provide the necessary legal support and guidance throughout this challenging process. Our dedicated team of personal injury attorneys understands the complexities of spinal cord injury cases and is committed to advocating for the rights of our clients. We strive to help our clients secure the compensation they deserve, including coverage for medical expenses, rehabilitation costs, ongoing care, lost wages, pain and suffering, and emotional distress.