Accidents may cause many injuries, some of which can be catastrophic and cause permanent impairments to the victim. Spinal cord injuries are common in accidents and can have severe effects such as paralysis. Paralysis, whether partial or total, is life-altering and will determine how the victim will be able to go on living their life.
If you’ve been in an accident and suffered spinal cord injuries, it is important to look out for the early signs of paralysis so that you may document them for use in a personal injury claim.
What Causes Paralysis?
Paralysis happens when a person suffers a complete spinal cord injury. The spinal cord is one of the main parts of the human nervous system. It is a delicate, round structure that runs through the spine, beginning at the brainstem and running down to the lower back. This structure contains nerve fibers and tissues and is connected to almost every part of the body. Paralysis can occur when a person suffers an injury to their spinal cord, which may cause all feeling and ability to control movement below the injury site to be lost. So the location of the injury on the spine will determine the extent of the paralysis inflicted.
The number one cause of paralysis is strokes, and the second leading cause is injury to the spinal cord. Spinal cord injuries can occur when the victim is involved in:
- Motor vehicle accidents
- Sports injuries
- Violence
- Falls
- And more
Early Signs of Paralysis to Look For
Early signs that may indicate a spinal cord injury, and may lead to paralysis include:
- Loss of sensation, the inability to feel heat, coldness, or touch
- Muscle movement or spasms
- Loss of control of bowels or bladder
- Trouble with balance
- Pain or stinging sensation
- Changes in sexual sensitivity or function
- Stiff neck, back pain, or headache
Symptoms that may indicate an emergency after a spinal cord injury include:
- Trouble breathing
- Difficulty walking or balancing
- Symptoms of shock (blueish lips or fingernails, pale skin)
- Twisted neck or back
- Semi-conscious or unconscious
What Are The Different Types Of Paralysis?
There are several different types of paralysis that can affect you, including:
- Monoplegia: the paralysis of one limb
- Hemiplegia: paralysis affecting only one side of the body
- Diplegia: paralysis affecting two limbs, usually affecting the legs more than the arms
- Paraplegia: paralysis affecting the lower half of the body, including both legs
- Triplegia: paralysis affecting three limbs, this could be both legs and one arm, both arms and one leg, or it could be paralysis in one arm, one leg, and the face.
- Quadriplegia: paralysis affecting all four limbs
Who Can Be Held Liable For My Paralysis After An Accident?
When you or a loved one are affected by paralysis, it is life-altering and may cause personal, financial, and physical repercussions. If someone is responsible for the injury that led to your paralysis, it is vital that you hold them accountable for their actions so that you may obtain the compensation you deserve. To do this, it is important to have an experienced Colorado attorney on your side to help you value your claim, build a strong case, gather evidence, and recover a full and fair settlement. Contact a Fort Collins personal injury lawyer today to get started.