The Devastating Effects of Spinal Cord Injuries

A spinal cord injury can have life-altering consequences for a NYC auto accident victim. The spinal cord acts as the bridge between the brain and the rest of the body. Together, the brain and spine make up the body’s central nervous system. When any type of accident, such as a motor vehicle accident or slip and fall causes a spinal cord injury, the effects can be life-changing for the victim. Spinal cord injuries can potentially last a lifetime.

Paralysis Is Possible

The most severe outcome of a spinal cord injury is paralysis: the loss of strength, control and feeling in a single muscle or muscle group. Paralysis may be permanent and irreversible, although some patients may regain some strength or function with treatments such as surgeries and years of rehabilitation. Paralysis related to spine injuries comes in different forms.

Partial or complete loss of function and sensation in both legs but not the upper body;

An injury that only affects an arm and leg on one side of the body.

There are other variations of spinal cord injuries as well. Doctors describe spinal cord injuries as either complete or incomplete. Complete injuries are severe and generally permanent. Incomplete injuries are less severe and may be overcome with extensive medical treatment.

Lack of Coordination & Weakness

Some injuries to the spinal cord do not take away a victim’s ability to move or feel below the point of injury, but rather create symptoms such as general muscle weakness, tingling or lack of coordination. A more minor spinal cord injury could cause pain, numbness, tingling, weakness, some loss of feeling, changes in hot and cold sensations, muscle spasms, lack of coordination, or trouble maintaining balance. These symptoms may be temporary or permanent depending on the person and the type of injury.

Respiratory Problems

Injuries that impact the neck region, also referred to as the cervical spine, can have a negative effect on the patient’s ability to breathe. Respiratory impairment from high cervical injuries could describe low lung capacity or a persistent cough due to the respiratory muscles losing strength. Trouble breathing could also stem from dysfunction of autonomic bodily functions from a compromised spinal cord.

Loss of Bladder and/or Bowel Control

Injuries to the lower part of the spine, the lumbar spine or the sacral spine, may interrupt communication between the brain and body that controls bowel and bladder functions. This could lead to long-term issues such as incontinence and lack of bowel control.

The Average Lifetime Costs of a Spinal Cord Injury

The physical and emotional consequences of a spinal cord injury are significant. Life-changing disabilities are what make spinal cord injuries so devastating for victims. Another issue an injury a victim of a severe spinal cord injury will have to contend with is the lifetime expenses associated with this type of injury.

Spinal Cord Injury Claim

If you are involved in an NYC auto accident and suffer a spinal injury, you may be entitled to seek money damages for your injuries from the responsible party. Work with a personal injury attorney in NYC for help in bringing a lawsuit related to your spinal cord injury. Contact our office today!