Rotational Injury of the Spine
Every year, many people are irreparably harmed by an injury of the spine. While some spinal cord injuries are recoverable, others can lead to permanent complications. Because of this, it is essential for everyone to educate themselves on spinal cord injuries. According to the statistics from Scientific Informational Pages:
- The most common reason why people sustain spinal cord injuries is motor vehicle accidents.
- These are closely followed by slip and fall injuries, acts of violence, and recreational activities.
- Around 300,000 people are currently living in the United States with an injury of the spine.
- There are more than 125,000 new injuries of the spinal cord annually.
Clearly, spinal cord injuries are a serious problem and can cause permanent neurological consequences.
What is a Rotational Spinal Cord Injury?
A rotational injury of the spine occurs when the torso turns too far for the spinal cord to handle. This could be seen in an auto accident or a motorcycle accident when the vehicle spins. As the torso rotates, the spine must rotate as well. This can stretch the ligaments in the spine to the point of snapping. When this happens, the facet joints attached to the vertebrae can dislocate. Therefore, ligament strains and facet dislocations are two of the most common consequences of a rotational spinal cord injury. A rotational injury of the spine can also lead to several complications.
Complications of a Serious Injury of the Spine
If somebody has suffered a spinal cord injury, there are lots of different complications that he or she might face. While some of these complications are treatable, others are permanent. Some of the most common complications include:
Mobility Problems: Mobility problems are common following an injury of the spine. This comes from damage to the nerves that power the legs, causing weakness and coordination problems.
Chronic Pain: Nerve damage can lead to chronic pain. Injury of the spinal nerves is no different. This can be treated with massage therapy, anti-inflammatory medications, narcotics, and even surgery.
Ulcers: If people suffer from numbness following a spinal cord injury, they might not notice pressure ulcers developing on the surface of their skin. These can lead to infections and could place someone in a hospital.
Because of these complications, treatment of a spinal cord injury must address not only the acute event but also the complications mentioned above.
Recovering from a Spinal Cord Injury
The recovery process following a spinal cord injury can sometimes be long and drawn out. Some spinal cord injuries, such as muscle strains and sprains, will take a few days or a few weeks to heal. This will get better with rest, ice, heat, pain control, and stretching. On the other hand, those who have suffered severe nerve damage might never fully recover. Treatment consists of physical therapy, pain control with anti-inflammatories and (in some cases) narcotics, and surgery. Therefore, it is important for everyone to seek medical care as quickly as possible.
Watch YouTube Video: What is a Spinal Cord Injury? The video below features an overview of spinal cord injuries and research.
Contacting an Injury Lawyer
Families who are looking for help following a spinal cord injury should know that assistance is available. A spinal cord injury can lead to permanent problems and can create a feeling of uncertainty about the future. Those who have suffered a spinal cord injury might not be able to go to school, return to their job, or participate in activities that they used to enjoy. Meeting with a spinal cord injury lawyer can help a family answer their questions. Some of the ways that an attorney can provide assistance include:
- Helping families pursue damages related to their spinal injury, their pain, or their emotional suffering.
- Negotiating with insurance companies to help families maximize their benefits and payout.
- Taking a case to trial, if needed.
No family should ever be nervous about asking for help. A compassionate spinal cord injury lawyer can help families receive the assistance that they need.
Spinal Cord Injury Attorneys
I’m Ed Smith, a spinal cord injury attorney. A rotational injury of the spine can lead to severe ligament damage and permanent injury. If you or someone you care for has sustained a spinal cord injury after a car accident, call me at (916) 921-6400 or toll-free at (800) 404-5400 for free, friendly advice.
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Rotational Injury of the Spine: Autoaccident.com
Image Attribution: Depositphotos.com
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