3 things to know about spinal cord injuries

On Behalf of | Jan 27, 2023 | Car accidents |

Car crashes can cause a violent impact that leads to catastrophic injuries for the vehicle’s occupants. One of these is a spinal cord injury, which can lead to lifelong effects and considerable medical bills.

Learning that you have a spinal cord injury can be scary. Finding out as much as you can about these injuries may help you to make decisions that are in your best interests.

#1: Location matters

The location of the damage to the spinal cord determines what areas of the body are impacted. The effects are always below the level of the injury. A person who has a neck injury is likely to have effects in all four limbs. If the injury is in the lower back, the effects will be to the legs.

#2: Spinal shock might occur

There’s a chance that the effects of the spinal cord injury might be worse immediately after the injury occurs. This is because the area is likely inflamed as a protective measure. As the inflammation abates, the effects will begin to go away. Doctors will sometimes prescribe medications to help reduce the swelling in the area and improve the chance of a good recovery.

#3: Type of injury impacts recovery

Spinal cord injuries are classified into one of two categories based on the nerve damage in the area. If the nerves are fully severed, the injury is considered complete and the person likely doesn’t have any sensation or ability to move the affected area of the body. If the nerves aren’t fully severed, the injury is incomplete and there’s likely sensation and movement below the level of injury. Typically, people with incomplete injuries have a better recovery than those who have a complete injury.

Seeking medical care for a suspected spinal cord injury is crucial, but it can be expensive. People who are injured because of the negligence of another person may choose to seek compensation for the damages. Georgia law sets time limits for filing these personal injury cases, so don’t wait too long.