Spinal Cord Injuries
Our car accident lawyers will fight for maximum compensation
Spinal cord injuries are among the most serious and life-altering injuries a person can suffer. Whether caused by a slip and fall, car accident, or other motor vehicle crash, a spinal cord injury can have a devastating impact on your physical health, emotional well-being, and financial stability. These injuries can lead to permanent paralysis, long-term medical treatments, and a significant reduction in quality of life.
If you or a loved one has suffered a spinal cord injury due to someone else’s negligence, you have the right to pursue compensation for your pain and suffering. However, that’s easier said than done. It’s important to work with an experienced attorney to ensure that your case is handled with the attention and care it deserves. At Romanow Law Group, we are dedicated to helping victims of spinal cord injuries secure the compensation they need to move forward.
What accidents cause spinal cord injuries?
Spinal cord injuries can occur in a variety of accidents, from car crashes to slip and falls, and can dramatically impact your life. If you’ve suffered a spinal cord injury due to someone else’s negligence, you may be entitled to compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and more. Common accidents that result in spinal cord injuries include:
- Car accidents: High-impact crashes can cause severe damage to the spine.
- Truck accidents: The force of a truck collision can lead to serious spinal injuries.
- Motorcycle accidents: Riders are at high risk for spinal injuries, especially in high-speed crashes.
- Pedestrian accidents: Being hit by a car or truck can cause traumatic spinal injuries.
- Slips and falls: Falling in a hazardous environment can lead to spinal injuries, especially in older adults.
What is the most common kind of spinal cord injury?
The most common types of spinal cord injuries are contusions and compression injuries. A contusion occurs when the spinal cord is bruised, often from a sudden impact, causing swelling, bleeding, or nerve damage. Compression injuries happen when the spine is pinched or squeezed, leading to pressure on the spinal cord. Both types of injuries can result in partial or complete loss of function below the injury site and are commonly caused by accidents like car crashes or falls.
Complete vs incomplete spinal cord injuries
Spinal cord injuries are categorized as complete or incomplete, depending on the level of function lost. A complete spinal cord injury means there is total loss of feeling and movement below the injury site. This means the spinal cord is fully damaged, cutting off communication between the brain and the body, which can lead to paralysis.
An incomplete spinal cord injury means that some nerve signals still get through, so there may be partial movement or sensation below the injury site. The level of recovery can vary, with some individuals regaining significant function, while others may still experience partial paralysis or weakness.
Both types of injuries are serious and can have lasting impacts on a person’s life, but incomplete injuries may offer more potential for recovery with the right treatment and therapy.
C5 spinal cord injuries
A C5 spinal cord injury occurs at the 5th cervical vertebra in the neck region. This type of injury typically results in partial paralysis below the shoulders, affecting both the arms and legs. People with a C5 injury may have some shoulder and bicep movement, allowing them to bend their elbows, but they often lose the ability to fully move their wrists, hands, or legs.
While a C5 injury can severely impact a person’s ability to perform daily tasks, with the right therapy and assistive devices, individuals can often regain some independence. Depending on the severity of the injury, some people with a C5 injury may be able to control a wheelchair or use adaptive technology for communication and other activities. However, most may need assistance with daily living tasks.
ICD 10 spinal cord injury
ICD-10 spinal cord injuries refer to how spinal cord injuries are classified in the International Classification of Diseases, 10th Edition (ICD-10) system. This system is used by doctors and healthcare providers to categorize and code injuries for accurate diagnosis, treatment, and billing. Spinal cord injuries are given specific codes based on the location and severity of the injury.
For example, an injury to the cervical spine (neck) would have a different ICD-10 code than one in the thoracic (upper back) or lumbar (lower back) regions. These codes help medical professionals track the injury and provide the most appropriate care. The ICD-10 system also differentiates between complete and incomplete injuries, which helps indicate the level of function loss and guides physical therapists on the appropriate exercises and rehabilitation program.
What are symptoms of spinal cord injuries?
After an accident, it’s critical to recognize the symptoms of a spinal cord injury, as they can be a sign of serious damage. Sometimes, symptoms might not appear immediately and can develop over time. Even if you don’t feel pain right away, seeking medical treatment is essential. Early detection and treatment can improve your chances for recovery and prevent further complications.
Here are common spinal cord injury symptoms to watch out for:
- Loss of movement or inability to move parts of the body
- Numbness or tingling
- Loss of bladder or bowel control
- Severe pain or pressure in the back, neck, or head
- Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
- Weakness in the arms, legs, or torso
- Paralysis
- Spasms or involuntary muscle contractions
What are spinal cord injury treatments?
Treating a spinal cord injury often begins with non-invasive treatments designed to help manage symptoms and improve function. Physical therapy (PT) and rehabilitation are key parts of recovery, as they help patients regain strength, mobility, and independence. PT focuses on exercises to improve muscle function and joint flexibility, while rehabilitation may involve specialized therapies to enhance daily living skills and support emotional well-being. Occupational therapy and speech therapy may also be included, depending on the individual’s needs.
In some cases, invasive treatments like surgery may be necessary to stabilize the spine, relieve pressure on the spinal cord, or address underlying injuries. Surgical procedures can include spinal fusion, where vertebrae are joined together to prevent movement, or decompression surgery to remove bone fragments or damaged tissue. Surgery can be critical for preventing further damage and improving function, especially in cases of severe spinal cord injuries. After surgery, patients typically undergo additional physical therapy to maximize recovery and restore as much movement and independence as possible.
Get the legal support you need for your spinal cord injury
A spinal cord injury is a life-changing injury that requires immediate medical attention and long-term care. Whether you’re dealing with a contusion, compression, or any other type of spinal cord injury, it’s essential to have the right medical treatment and the right legal team by your side. We understand the challenges that come with these injuries and are dedicated to helping you secure the compensation you deserve for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
If you or someone you care about is coping with a spinal cord injury, don’t wait to reach out. We’re here to support you through this difficult time, making sure you get the help and care you need. Our team is dedicated to standing by your side and fighting for the justice and compensation you deserve. Contact us today for a free consultation.