Different Types of Spinal Cord Injuries

Among the most serious injuries one could sustain in an accident is a spinal cord injury. Spinal cord injuries can affect the body in a variety of devastating ways including paralysis, poor circulation, cognitive issues, muscle pain and more. Symptoms of a spinal cord injury are not always obvious, as most people who suffer from an injury often blame the pain on bruising, soreness, or just back pain.
Exactly how a spinal cord injury will affect a person largely depends on a variety of different circumstances. The force of impact and the position (be it the back, front, center, upper, or lower spine) all play a role in how devastating a spinal cord injury can be.

Center Cord Syndrome

When the center of the spinal cord is impacted and damaged, it is classified as Central Cord Syndrome. This kind of injury can lead to partial loss or paralysis of hands and arms.

Cervical Spinal Cord Injury

A cervical spinal cord injury occurs in the top part of the spine, and can lead to quadriplegia or tetraplegia.

Lumbar Spinal Cord Injury

Lumbar spinal cord injuries affect the mid to lower part of the spine. In severe cases of strong impact, this kind of spinal cord injury can lead to reduced motion, or weakening or complete paralysis of the legs.

Sacral Spinal Cord Injury

Affecting the lowest part of the spine, a sacral spinal cord injury can have a variety devastating consequences. Movement and control of the legs and hips can be severely diminished or eliminated altogether. Control of the bladder and bowels can also be affected, as well as sexual performance.
In some cases, the effects of a spinal cord injury can often be cured, or at least partially restored, with intensive, extended medical care and therapy. But even in these cases, the cost of medial attention and therapy can be extremely high. Those affected often have to leave their jobs, be it temporarily or permanently. The sudden loss of wages and rising costs can cause a dangerous financial situation. Nobody should have to suffer as a result of someone else’s negligence.
 
If you or a loved one have suffered a spinal cord injury in New Jersey, contact us today for your free consultation!