When a car accident causes spinal cord injury and paralysis

One of the most serious injuries you can get from a car accident is a spinal cord injury. According to the Mayo Clinic, car crashes are one of the leading causes of spinal cord injuries. A motor vehicle collision may cause your spine to flex and the spinal column to compress. This can result in a herniated disc.

If your spinal cord suffers more devastating damage, it may cause paralysis. Here is what you should know about spinal cord injuries and paralysis after a car accident.

Spinal cord injury symptoms

There exist various possible signs of a spinal cord injury, including:

• Tingling sensation
• Loss of movement
• Loss of sensation
• Numbness
• Spasms
• Loss of bladder or bowel control
• Extreme back, neck or head pain
• Breathing problems

Spinal cord damage can be life-altering, so you should seek immediate medical evaluation if you suspect injury.

Paralysis after a car accident

The nerves in your spinal column control the muscles throughout your body. If any of them get damaged, there may be paralysis. There exist different categories of paralysis:

• Quadriplegia – paralysis of the arms and legs
• Paraplegia – paralysis of the legs and lower body
• Hemiplegia – paralysis of the leg and arm of one side of the body
• Monoplegia – paralysis of one limb

When you seek medical attention, the health care professionals will conduct tests to determine the extent of the injury and whether there is any paralysis.

Treatment of spinal cord injury and paralysis

Sadly, there is no way to repair spinal cord damage. That said, multiple treatments can help you return to an active life and prevent subsequent injuries. Most treatment involves medications, surgery, physical therapy and new technologies, such as wheelchairs and electronic aids.

Suffering a spinal cord injury and related complications can be shocking and traumatic. Thankfully, you may be able to get compensation for your medical bills, lost income and loss of enjoyment of life through a personal injury lawsuit.