There are currently 294,000 people in the United States who are thought to be living with a spinal cord injury. Each year, there are over 17,800 newly reported cases of the disease. Even though each spinal cord injury is unique, they all have the potential to have a significant negative impact on a patient’s overall health, well-being, and quality of life.
At 2H Law Firm, we recognize the devastation a spinal cord injury can cause to accident victims and their families. Rebuilding your life is not a simple task, especially when faced with enormous medical expenses and the need to coordinate your care. If another party is responsible for your spinal cord injury, you may be entitled to compensation to help you manage these costs and alleviate financial burdens. Our personal injury attorneys are here to support you and fight for the compensation you deserve.
What Are the Most Common Causes of Spinal Cord Injury?
Numerous spinal cord injuries are caused by traumatic events such as:
The following are some of the common symptoms of a spinal cord injury:
- Inability to move.
- Muscle weakness.
- Lack of coordination
- Reduced or altered sensations of touch, heat, or cold.
- Loss of bladder or bowel control.
- Muscle spasms or exaggerated reflexes.
- Impaired breathing.
- Problems coughing or clearing the lungs.
- Pain or pressure in the neck or back.
- Odd positioning or twisting of the neck or back.
How Is a Spinal Cord Injury Diagnosed?
If a doctor has reason to believe that a patient has sustained an injury to the spinal cord, then the patient must undergo a physical examination that evaluates the person’s motor and sensory functions. In addition, physicians will order diagnostic imaging scans such as X-rays or CT scans to reveal fractured or displaced vertebrae or an MRI to view the damage to the spinal cord itself. These scans can be performed using a variety of imaging technologies.
What Is the Immediate Treatment For A Spinal Cord Injury?
An immediate treatment plan for a spinal cord injury focuses on minimizing the effects of the injury, preventing further damage, and avoiding complications such as difficulty breathing or with the cardiovascular system, blood clots, or retention of stool or urine. To safeguard the patient’s head, neck, and spinal column, the patient may be immobilized or subjected to traction.
In addition, surgery may be necessary to remove bone fragments or foreign objects, repair herniated discs, or stabilize the spine through implants or spinal fusion in order to prevent pain or deformation in the future.
Long-Term Consequences of a Spinal Cord Injury
An injury to the spinal cord can result in several long-term complications, including the following:
- Partial or total paralysis.
- Increased risk of urinary tract infections or gastrointestinal problems due to issues with bladder or bowel control.
- Increased risk of blood clots or inability to properly regulate blood pressure.
- Increased risk of respiratory infections.
- Anxiety or depression.
Conclusion
If you or a loved one has suffered a spinal cord injury in California, you need the representation of 2H Law Firm. Our seasoned attorneys will seek maximum compensation for your losses and hold the negligent party liable for their actions. Contact us at (619) 374-9320 immediately for a free case evaluation.
