Car accidents usually result in serious injuries. Indeed, this kind of accident is the main cause of spinal cord injuries. These injuries tend to leave injured victims and their loved ones with long-term complications as well as financial and physical hardships. A spinal cord injury can cause a disability. So, if you are suffering from a spinal cord injury after being in a car accident, you should have a free consultation with a car accident attorney. During the consultation, the attorney will assess your case to determine if it is worth fighting for. They will ask you several questions, such as the seriousness of your injuries and the circumstances of the accident to decide whether or not to take your case.
Spinal cord injuries are serious enough to warrant the need for lifelong medication. The following are common spinal cord injuries victims of car accidents may suffer from:
Herniated Discs
This kind of injury happens when the disk-shaped cushions in your spine bulge through abnormal openings and may result in a ruptured disc. If you have a herniated disc, you can experience disc tears, pinched nerves, or rupture. It can cause serious pain and may result in arm, neck, or shoulder numbness or weakness. To improve your symptoms, you may need physical therapy, medication, surgery, and weight control.
Fractured Vertebrae
Your vertebrae or backbone is vulnerable in a vehicle accident. Dislocation or fracture can affect any part of your spine, resulting in injuries from muscle and ligament strain to spinal cord damage, and fractures. If you sustain a serious vertebra fracture following a crash, you may require surgery, so your bones can be realigned.
Fractures can happen in car accidents as a violent forward movement will flex and pull your vertebrae apart. Your symptoms can include back or neck pain, tingling, numbness, limb weakness, incontinence, and uncontrolled muscle spasms.
Degenerative Spinal Disorders
After a car crash, degenerative spinal disorders, like spinal stenosis or osteoarthritis, can be accelerated or exacerbated. Also, slipped discs and herniated discs can result in spine degeneration, as pressure is placed on the spinal cord and never roots. These disorders present symptoms such as spine deformities, a limited range of motion, and chronic or sharp pain that occurs with or without movement. Also, spine regeneration can cause bladder and bowel problems, sexual dysfunction, loss of sensations, and weakness.
The right treatment for these disorders depends on the condition and seriousness. The pain associated with them can be managed with physical therapy, a brace, and medication.
