When you think of catastrophic injuries, you may think of those that affect the brain and spine. The spine is literally the backbone of the human body. Any damage to the spinal cord can be catastrophic or even fatal.
Every year, between 250,000 and 500,000 people suffer a spinal cord injury worldwide. A spinal cord injury can result from damage to the vertebrae and the surrounding tissue. It can also result from a direct injury to the spinal cord itself. This damage may cause temporary or permanent changes to mobility, strength, bodily functions, and sensation.
Spinal cord injuries can happen in a number of ways. Read on to learn more about the cause and effects.
Causes of Spinal Cord Injuries
Spinal cord injuries are traumatic (caused by accidents) and non-traumatic (caused by diseases and medical conditions). Here’s a look at the various causes:
- Motor vehicle accidents. Car, motorcycle, and bicycle accidents are leading causes of spinal cord injuries.
- Falls. Falls from heights can result in spinal cord injuries, especially in older adults.
- Sports Injuries. High-impact sports, like football, can lead to spinal cord injuries.
- Acts of violence. Assault, stabbings, and gunshot wounds may cause spinal cord damage.
- Medical procedures. Complications during spinal surgery can result in spinal cord injuries.
- Diseases. Cancer, arthritis, osteoporosis, and inflammation of the spinal cord can contribute to spinal cord injuries. So can iInfections such as meningitis and tuberculosis.
- Degenerative conditions. Herniated discs and spinal stenosis can compress the spinal cord, causing injury.
Effects of Spinal Cord Injuries
Spinal cord injuries have profound effects on the body. In many cases, the effects are irreversible. Here are some of the most serious effects:
- Paralysis. Paralysis is the most significant and obvious effect. The degree of paralysis depends on the level and severity of the injury. A person’s arms, legs, or entire body may be paralyzed.
- Loss of sensation. Those with spinal cord injuries often experience a loss of sensation below the level of injury. This can include loss of touch and temperature sensation.
- Respiratory issues. Respiratory muscles may be affected, causing difficulties in breathing and requiring assisted ventilation or other respiratory support.
- Autonomic dysfunction. Spinal cord injuries can disrupt the autonomic nervous system, leading to problems with blood pressure, heart rate, and temperature regulation.
- Loss of bladder and bowel control. Control over bladder and bowel function is often impaired, which can result in incontinence and require the use of catheters.
- Muscle spasms. Many people with spinal cord injuries experience muscle spasms, which can be painful and affect mobility.
- Chronic pain. Those with spinal cord injuries suffer chronic pain from nerve damage and muscle spasms.
Contact Us Today
Spinal cord injuries are painful, debilitating, and very costly. Managing such an injury can cost millions of dollars over a person’s lifetime.
Are you prepared for dealing with such an injury? Get help from the Renton personal injury lawyers at Premier Law Group. Don’t settle for less. To schedule a free consultation, fill out the online form or call or text (206) 880-7437.