There is no such thing as a good car accident injury but it is certainly true that some are worse than others. One of the most painful injuries that can cause long-term consequences is a spinal cord injury. Keep reading to learn the basics of these injuries and then contact Law Offices of Fernando D. Vargas at 909-982-0707 for a free legal consultation.
The Potential Long-Term Consequences of Spinal Cord Injuries
If a person suffers from a spinal cord injury, they can experience lifelong symptoms. For example, they may be partially or totally paralyzed. They may lose vital organ function that eventually results in their death. Spinal cord injuries are different from many other types of injuries because the victim cannot generally simply heal and move on.
Spinal Cord Injuries Are Not the Same as Back Injuries
Many people make the mistake of believing that spinal cord injuries and back injuries are the same things. They are not. A back injury can be the result of a ruptured or broken disc in the spin, but the bundled rope of nerves that runs through those discs (the spinal cord) may not be injured at all.
When that bundle of nerves is severed, bruised, torn, or otherwise damaged by any type of exterior force (like a car accident) there can be serious complications. Remember that the spinal cord works by moving messages and signals from the brain to the rest of the body. If The spinal cord is injured, it may not be able to do so and a loss of mobility in part or all of the body could occur.
There Are Two Main Types of Spinal Cord Injury: Complete and Incomplete
A complete spinal cord injury is one in which there is a total loss of motor and sensory capabilities starting at the location of the injury and moving down. This type of injury often leads to other complications include issues with bladder control, chronic pain, and higher instances of respiratory and heart issues.
On the other hand, an incomplete spinal cord injury results in a person having some type of motor and sensory capabilities below the location of the injury. This type of injury is much more likely to respond to treatment and/or therapy than a person who has experienced a complete spinal cord injury.
The Long Term Cost of a Spinal Cord Injury
A spinal cord injury is expensive. It often requires a lot of physical therapy. It may require numerous surgeries. Often expensive wheelchairs and home modifications are necessary. Additionally, many people who suffer this type of injury suffer reduced earning capacity for the rest of their lives.
If someone else was at fault for their accident, that party should be held accountable for the financial disruption the accident has caused. Contact Law Offices of Fernando D. Vargas at 909-982-0707 now for a free legal consultation.
