Spinal cord injuries occur when there is damage to the spinal cord itself or to the nerves surrounding it. These injuries often occur due to the sudden and forceful impact experienced during a collision. The severity of a spinal cord injury can vary widely, ranging from temporary numbness to permanent paralysis.
Motor vehicle accidents can result in severe injuries, and among the most devastating are spinal cord injuries (SCIs). These injuries can lead to lifelong complications, significantly impacting the quality of life of those affected. Understanding the causes, prevention strategies and treatment options for spinal cord injuries is crucial in mitigating their impact and improving outcomes for individuals involved in MVAs.
What are spinal cord injuries?
There are two main types of spinal cord Injuries: complete and incomplete. In a complete spinal cord injury, there is a total loss of sensation and motor function below the level of the injury. Conversely, with an incomplete injury, some functionality remains below the level of the injury.
Motor vehicle accidents can result in spinal cord injuries through various mechanisms, including:
- Whiplash: Rapid back-and-forth neck and spine movement during a collision can cause damage to the spinal cord.
- Compression: Impact from objects within the vehicle or external forces can compress the spinal cord, leading to injury.
- Trauma: Direct trauma to the spine, such as being struck by debris or ejected from the vehicle, can cause significant damage to the spinal cord.
Wearing seat belts can significantly reduce the risk of spinal cord injuries by preventing ejection from the vehicle and minimizing the impact of a collision.
Treatment options for spinal cord injuries
In the aftermath of a motor vehicle accident, emergency responders focus on stabilizing the patient to help prevent further damage to the spinal cord. Immobilizing the spine with a cervical collar or backboard helps prevent movement that could exacerbate the injury.
Most spinal cord injury patients need long-term rehabilitation that incorporates physical and occupational therapy. Physical rehabilitation aims to improve strength, mobility and function in individuals with spinal cord injuries. On the other hand, occupational therapists assist patients in relearning daily tasks and adapting to any physical limitations.
Spinal cord injuries resulting from motor vehicle accidents can result in devastating consequences, but understanding the causes, prevention strategies and treatment options is essential in improving outcomes for those affected. By ensuring access to legal services, spinal cord injury patients can also maximize the potential of receiving fair compensation after a motor vehicle accident caused by another’s negligence or intentional conduct.