Spinal cord injuries from car accidents vary greatly in severity and impact. They typically occur from the sudden force exerted during a collision. This force can cause damage to the vertebrae, ligaments, or disks of the spinal column, or directly to the spinal cord itself.
The impact can lead to fractures, dislocations, crushing, or compression of the spinal cord. Immediate medical attention is vital to assess and mitigate the damage.
What Are the Different Categories of Spinal Cord Injuries?
Spinal cord injuries are broadly categorized into two types:
- Complete Spinal Cord Injury: This results in a total loss of motor function and sensation below the level of the injury. Both sides of the body are equally affected. Complete spinal cord injuries often lead to permanent paralysis, either paraplegia (affecting the legs and lower body) or quadriplegia (affecting all four limbs and the torso).
- Incomplete Spinal Cord Injury: With this type, there is some level of retained motor or sensory function below the site of the injury. The extent and areas of functionality vary, and recovery outcomes are generally better than with complete injuries. Incomplete injuries are further classified based on the patterns of damage and residual function.
What Are Some Specific Types of Incomplete Spinal Cord Injuries?
Incomplete spinal cord injuries can manifest in several ways, including:
- Anterior Cord Syndrome: Damage to the front portion of the spinal cord, affecting motor functions and sensations of pain and temperature while preserving touch and proprioception (the sense of body position).
- Central Cord Syndrome: Characterized by more extensive impairment in the arms than the legs, this syndrome typically results from damage to the center of the spinal cord. It is common in older adults with cervical spondylosis who suffer a hyperextension injury.
- Brown-Séquard Syndrome: This condition arises from damage to one side of the spinal cord, leading to a loss of movement and sensation on the same side as the injury. It also presents with a loss of pain and temperature sensation on the opposite side.
- Posterior Cord Syndrome: This rare type of injury involves damage to the back of the spinal cord, primarily affecting coordination and movement. Patients typically retain motor strength and sensations of pain and temperature.
What Are the Symptoms of Spinal Cord Injuries?
Common spinal cord injury symptoms include:
- Loss of movement
- Loss of sensation, including the ability to feel heat, cold, and touch
- Loss of bladder or bowel control
- Exaggerated reflex activities or spasms
- Changes in sexual function, sexual sensitivity, and fertility
- Pain or an intense stinging sensation caused by damage to the nerve fibers in the spinal cord
What Are the Long-Term Effects of Spinal Cord Injuries?
The long-term effects of spinal cord injuries can be profound and life-altering. Individuals may experience different degrees of paralysis, requiring significant lifestyle adjustments and ongoing medical care. Rehabilitation often includes physical therapy, occupational therapy, and counseling to help manage the emotional and psychological impacts of the injury.
Additionally, secondary complications such as respiratory issues, blood clots, and pressure ulcers can arise, requiring comprehensive medical monitoring and intervention.
Contact a Skilled Media Car Accident Lawyer at Eckell Sparks for Legal Guidance on a Spinal Cord Injury
Dealing with the aftermath of a car accident involving spinal cord injuries can be overwhelming, and legal issues often compound the stress of medical concerns. A skilled Media car accident lawyer at Eckell, Sparks, Levy, Auerbach, Monte, Sloane, Matthews & Auslander, P.C. can provide the trusted guidance you need. For more information, call our Media and West Chester, Pennsylvania, offices at 610-565-3701 or submit our online form. We serve clients in Delaware County, Chester County, and Montgomery County.