The spinal cord is a vital structure in the human body, as it is responsible for your mobility and numerous other critical functions. Spinal cord injuries can be extremely severe and may lead to long-term or life-long complications, such as paralysis.
The expenses of taking care of a spinal cord injury can lead to a serious financial strain, particularly when the injury results in substantial lifestyle changes for the victim. Spinal cord injuries may affect your ability to work (either temporarily or permanently), as well as require home modifications such as installing wheelchair ramps or redesigning kitchens and bathrooms for accessibility. It is for these reasons that spinal cord injuries are among the most serious types of Georgia personal injury claims.
Overview of Spinal Cord Injuries
Spinal cord injuries may result from a variety of accident types, but commonly result from motor vehicle collisions or slip and fall accidents. A spinal cord injury occurs when the soft tissues in the spinal cord have been damaged. Within these tissues are structures called axons, which send signals up and down the spine.
When the soft tissues sustain damage, the axons are squeezed and crushed making them unable to function. All body systems may be vulnerable after a spinal cord injury because the spine houses a majority of the axons that control your central nervous system (CNS). Likewise, if your vertebrae become dislocated or injured, your spine will most likely be affected.
While specialized therapy and rehabilitation may assist with recovery, severe damage to the spine may result in life-long disability. This is why many Georgia spinal cord injury victims will seek a Georgia personal injury claim after suffering such a trauma in an accident. An Atlanta personal injury lawyer may be able to assist in filing a Georgia personal injury claim when a serious injury, such as a spinal cord injury, results from someone else's negligence.
Signs and Symptoms of a Spinal Cord Injury
Spinal cord injuries will vary depending on which part of the spine was damaged and how the accident occurred. For example, damages on the upper section of the spinal cord may lead to permanent disability or total paralysis.
Some common symptoms that may indicate a possible spinal cord injury include:
- paralysis;
- chronic pain and burning sensation;
- sexual dysfunction;
- poor range-of-motion;
- difficulty breathing; and/or
- loss of sensation in affected areas.
In some instances, a spinal cord injury may not be immediately diagnosed, but signs of the injury may become apparent later on. This is why it is always so important to seek comprehensive medical attention after being involved in a Georgia car accident. Early medical treatment is critical in preventing further injury.
Continue to Next Page >>