FAQs
Injury sustained to your spine, causing limitations to your ability to move, drive, work, or live without pain.
Spinal injuries, also known as spinal cord injuries, refer to damage to the spinal cord or the vertebrae of the spine. The spinal cord is a critical part of the central nervous system that transmits signals between the brain and the rest of the body, allowing for the control of movement and the relay of sensory information. Spinal injuries can vary in severity and can have significant physical, sensory, and motor function consequences. Here are key points to understand about spinal injuries:
- Causes of Spinal Injuries: Spinal injuries can result from various causes, including:
- Trauma: Spinal injuries often occur due to traumatic events such as car accidents, falls, sports injuries, and acts of violence.
- Disease: Certain medical conditions like spinal tumors, infections, or degenerative diseases can lead to spinal cord damage.
- Non-traumatic accidents: Spinal cord injuries can also occur in non-traumatic circumstances, such as surgical complications or vascular issues like blood clots.
- Types of Spinal Injuries: Spinal injuries can be categorized into two main types:
- Complete spinal cord injuries: In these cases, there is a total loss of sensory and motor function below the level of the injury. This means that the person has no sensation or voluntary muscle control in the affected areas.
- Incomplete spinal cord injuries: These injuries result in partial loss of sensory and motor function. Individuals with incomplete injuries may retain some sensation or limited motor control below the level of the injury.
- Levels of Injury: The location of the spinal injury along the spinal cord determines the extent of impairment. Spinal cord injuries are often classified by the vertebra at which the injury occurs. The higher the injury on the spinal cord, the more extensive the functional impairments.
- Symptoms and Complications: The symptoms and complications of spinal injuries can vary widely, but they often include paralysis, loss of sensation, difficulty with motor functions (including mobility and bowel or bladder control), chronic pain, and respiratory difficulties.
- Treatment: Treatment for spinal injuries depends on the severity and location of the injury. In some cases, surgery may be necessary to stabilize the spine and prevent further damage. Physical therapy and rehabilitation are also essential components of treatment to help individuals regain as much function and independence as possible.
- Prognosis: The prognosis for individuals with spinal injuries can vary significantly. Complete spinal cord injuries are less likely to show significant recovery, while some individuals with incomplete injuries may regain some function over time.
- Lifestyle and Support: Spinal injuries often require significant adjustments to an individual’s lifestyle and may necessitate assistive devices such as wheelchairs or mobility aids. Rehabilitation, counseling, and support from healthcare professionals and support groups can be crucial for individuals and their families.
Spinal injuries are life-changing events that can have profound and long-lasting effects on an individual’s physical and emotional well-being. Advances in medical care, rehabilitation techniques, and assistive technologies have improved the quality of life for many people with spinal injuries, but these injuries still pose significant challenges that require ongoing care and support.
Depending on the scenario surrounding your injury, several parties could be held liable including individuals, manufacturers, and businesses. If you or a loved one have sustained a spinal injury due to negligence, medical malpractice, or any other type of accident, we would love to help.