According to the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, a spinal cord injury results from a sudden and traumatic event that causes fractures or dislocates vertebrae. This trauma can compress the spinal cord or damage it, leaving the brain unable to effectively send signals to the rest of the nervous system. A spinal cord injury can be catastrophic, oftentimes leaving the victim without the ability to use their arms and/or legs, or causing respiratory difficulties.
How Do Spinal Cord Injuries Happen?
Spinal cord injuries are typically caused by accidents. Sometimes, a vehicle accident, a fall, or even a birth injury can cause an injury to the spinal cord. According to the National Spinal Cord Injury Statistical Center, there are approximately 17,000 new spinal cord injury cases each year. Males are more likely to suffer a spinal cord injury, and the average age of onset is 29 years old.
Do Spinal Cord Injuries Lead to Paralysis?
Some spinal cord injuries lead to paralysis and others do not. In fact, some spinal cord injuries can result in a full recovery. However, a recent study from the Centers for Disease Control notes that spinal cord injury is the leading cause of paralysis here in the United States.
What are Treatment Options for Spinal Cord Injury?
As with most medical conditions, treatment options for spinal cord injury vary from person to person and situation to situation. Emergency medical treatment is always required, as the injury typically happens due to a traumatic event. Medical professionals will work to reduce signs of shock as well as assure breathing is as easy as possible. After the initial emergency treatment, people living with spinal cord injuries will stay in the hospital to be treated with medication, therapy, and even surgery.
If you have been in a traumatic accident that led to a spinal cord injury, you could be entitled to compensation for your medical bills, work loss, or pain and suffering. Call the team at Grewer Law to talk about your specific situation and develop a plan with our experienced attorney.