A car accident can be a traumatic experience and when it results in a spinal cord injury, it can be life-altering. Spinal cord injuries mean severe pain, limited mobility, and even paralysis and extensive medical treatment and rehab. One of the most important things you can do is work with an experienced Atlanta car accident attorney. An attorney who has experience with spinal cord injury cases can help you navigate the legal maze, negotiate with insurance companies, and get you the compensation you need to cover medical bills, lost wages, and other damages.
In this post, we’ll go over the steps to take after a spinal cord injury car accident and how working with an attorney can make all the difference in your recovery.
Spinal Cord Injury from Car Accidents
Car accidents can be very forceful on the body. That force can cause serious spinal damage. The impact can cause different types of spinal trauma, stretching, compression, and twisting of the spine. Knowing these injuries is important for medical treatment and legal purposes.
Forces in Car Accidents
When a car hits another car or object the body decelerates rapidly. This sudden stop can make the spine move in ways it’s not meant to. The forces involved can stretch the spinal cord or compress the vertebrae and cause serious damage. In many cases, the victim won’t feel the full extent of their injuries right after the accident.
Types of Spinal Trauma
Spinal trauma can show up in many ways:
- Stretch Injuries: When the spinal cord is pulled or stretched beyond its limits. This can cause nerve damage and loss of function.
- Compression Injuries: When the vertebrae are compressed together it can fracture the bones or damage the discs in the spine.
- Twisting Injuries: A sudden twist can cause the spine to rotate unnaturally and cause serious damage to the surrounding tissues and nerves.
Types of Spinal Injuries
A spinal cord injury can be very different in severity and type. Here are some that can occur in car accidents:
Whiplash
Whiplash is a common neck injury that occurs from sudden movement during a crash. Symptoms are pain and stiffness in the neck. Treatment is physical therapy and pain management.
Herniated Discs
A herniated disc occurs when the soft material inside a disc in the spine bulges out. This can cause nerve compression. Symptoms are pain, numbness, or weakness in the back or legs. Treatment may be physical therapy, medications, or surgery.
Spinal Cord Contusion or Bruising
A spinal cord contusion is a bruise on the spinal cord that can be temporary or permanent. Symptoms are pain, weakness, or loss of sensation. Medical professionals will often order imaging tests to determine the extent of the injury.
Spinal Fractures
Spinal fractures occur when one or more vertebrae break from impact. Symptoms are severe pain, difficulty moving, and numbness. Treatment may be bracing, physical therapy, or surgery depending on the severity of the fracture.
Spinal Cord Compression
This occurs when pressure is applied to the spinal cord usually from swelling or injury. Symptoms can be from pain to paralysis. Treatment is usually immediate medical attention which may be surgery to relieve pressure.
Spinal Cord Injury Symptoms
Spinal cord injuries can show up in many ways. Knowing these symptoms is key to timely medical attention. Here are some to watch for after a car accident:
- Sharp, Persistent Neck or Back Pain: Many victims experience pain in their neck or back. This pain is a sign of serious spinal injury and should not be ignored.
- Tingling or Numbness in Extremities: A common symptom of spinal cord damage is tingling or numbness in the arms and legs. This means nerve involvement and needs attention now.
- Muscle Weakness or Paralysis: Muscle weakness can occur in one or more limbs. In severe cases, paralysis can set in and affect mobility and daily activities.
- Difficulty Walking or Balance: If you can’t walk or balance yourself it may be a spinal injury. This can affect your ability to move safely.
- Reduced Sensitivity to Heat, Cold, or Touch: Changes in sensation can occur where victims may not feel temperature changes or touch. This is a serious problem that needs to be evaluated.
- Bladder or Bowel Control Issues: Spinal injuries can affect bladder and bowel functions. If you have any issues in this area get medical help.
- Breathing Problems: Upper spine injuries can cause breathing problems. If you can’t breathe get medical attention now.
Symptoms and Treatment
Recognizing spinal cord injury symptoms after a car accident is key. Symptoms can be many and varied and early detection makes a big difference.
Symptoms
After an accident, you may have persistent neck or back pain. This can be sharp or dull and doesn’t go away with rest. Numbness or tingling in your arms or legs is another warning sign. In severe cases, paralysis can occur. If you can’t walk or balance yourself get help. Other symptoms are reduced sensitivity to heat, cold, or touch and bladder or bowel control issues. If the upper spine is affected breathing problems may occur.
Medical Exams
If you think you have a spinal cord injury get medical help now. Doctors will often order X-rays to check for fractures. MRIs are also used to check for soft tissue damage including spinal cord or surrounding tissue injuries. These tests will give you a clear picture of the injury and treatment plan.
Get medical help fast. Your health matters.
Long-Term Effects and Recovery
A spinal cord injury can change your life. The effects depend on the severity and location of the injury. Some may have lasting damage while others will recover with proper medical treatment.
Degree of Injury
The degree of the spinal cord injury will determine the long-term outcome. Injuries can range from mild strains to severe trauma that causes paralysis. Those with complete injuries will have a loss of mobility and independence. Those with incomplete injuries will have some function and sensation and have better recovery prospects.
Location of Injury
The location of the spinal injury also matters. Cervical spine injuries can affect arm and leg function and result in quadriplegia. Thoracic or lumbar injuries can result in paraplegia and affect the lower body. Knowing the exact location of the injury will help you understand the recovery and rehab needs.
Overall Health
A person’s overall health will also affect recovery from spinal injuries. Age, pre-existing conditions, and lifestyle will play a role. Healthier people will heal faster and respond better to treatment. Those with other health issues will face more challenges during recovery.
Recovery
With quick medical attention and proper treatment, some people can regain significant function. Rehab programs that focus on physical therapy and occupational therapy can help with recovery. These programs will strengthen muscles, improve mobility, and promote independence. But recovery varies greatly from person to person.
Treatment for Spinal Cord Injuries
A spinal cord injury from a car accident needs immediate and proper treatment. The approach will depend on the type and severity of the injury. Here are some common treatments:
Bracing
Bracing is used to stabilize the spine after an injury. This will reduce movement and prevent further damage. It’s important for recovery, especially in spinal fractures or dislocations.
Surgery
In some cases, surgery may be needed. Surgical procedures can address herniated discs or spinal cord compression. This will relieve pressure on the spinal cord and stabilize the spine.
Physical Therapy
Physical therapy is key to recovery. It will help patients regain strength, flexibility, and mobility. A customized physical therapy program will improve the quality of life for those with spinal injuries.
Rehab
Rehab is about helping individuals adjust to their injuries. This may include occupational therapy which will help with daily activities. Rehab is important for independence and overall function.
Medications
Medications can help with pain and inflammation. Doctors may prescribe anti-inflammatory drugs or pain relievers to ease the discomfort. In some cases, muscle relaxants may be needed to reduce muscle spasms.
Radiation Therapy
For spinal injuries caused by tumors, radiation therapy may be needed. This will target cancerous cells and reduce pressure on the spinal cord. It’s an option for specific cases only.
Timely Treatment is Key
Get medical attention quickly after a car accident. Early treatment will lead to better outcomes and may prevent further complications. If you experience symptoms of spinal injury such as persistent pain or numbness see a doctor immediately. Your life depends on it.
Contact an Experienced Atlanta Car Accident Lawyer ASAP!
If you or a loved one has suffered a spinal cord injury in a car accident, it’s crucial to seek legal help. At GMV Law Group, we are here to provide expert guidance. Our team understands the challenges you face and is committed to supporting you through this difficult time.
Contact us at 404-975-4878 for a complimentary consultation today!
