Car accidents can cause serious, life-altering injuries, including spinal cord injuries. Victims of car accident spinal cord injuries may experience partial or complete paralysis, loss of sensation, and pain. While the severity of these injuries can vary widely, it’s important to understand what to look for and how to get help if you have suffered a spinal cord injury in a car accident. This blog post will look at some of the most common spinal cord injuries caused by car accidents, their potential effects, and how they can be treated.
Whiplash
Whiplash is a common type of spinal cord injury caused by car accidents. It occurs when the head moves forward and backward quickly and violently, causing the neck muscles and ligaments to stretch beyond their normal limits. This can result in soreness, stiffness, and pain in the neck and shoulders. In some cases, more severe symptoms such as tingling, numbness, and dizziness can also occur. Treatment for whiplash typically involves physical therapy and rest.
Herniated Discs
Herniated discs, also known as slipped or ruptured discs, can occur when the vertebrae of the spine slip out of their normal position due to a sudden impact. Herniated discs can lead to significant pain, discomfort, and decreased mobility. When it comes to car accidents, herniated discs may be caused by direct impact from another vehicle or the sudden jerking motion that the impact can cause. Medication, therapy, or even surgery may be required to relieve pain or correct the disc problem.
Fractured Vertebrae
Fractured vertebrae are often caused by a direct blow to the spine. The fracture may also be accompanied by bruising and can cause extreme pain and discomfort. Treatment for fractured vertebrae typically includes rest, physical therapy, and pain medications. In severe cases, surgery may be required to repair the fracture.
Spinal Cord Concussion
A spinal cord concussion, sometimes referred to as a contusion, is a type of injury that occurs when the spine is violently shaken, resulting in bruising and swelling of the spinal cord. It can lead to temporary paralysis, numbness, and loss of sensation in the area below the point of injury. This type of injury is most commonly seen in car accidents, as the impact force can cause a sudden and violent jolt to the spine. Treatment for this injury includes rest, physical therapy, medications to reduce swelling, and potentially surgery to repair the damaged spinal cord.
Ligament and Muscle Strains
Ligament and muscle strains are common spinal cord injuries caused by car accidents. This type of injury involves stretching or tearing ligaments, tendons, and muscles that support the spine. Strains can cause pain, loss of strength, and muscle spasms. Treatment typically involves rest, pain medication, physical therapy, and possibly surgery.
How a Car Accident Attorney Can Help
If you have suffered a spinal cord injury due to a car accident that wasn’t your fault, consider seeking legal counsel from an experienced car accident attorney. A qualified lawyer can help you through the insurance claim or lawsuit process. They could fight for your rights and work to obtain the compensation you deserve. They will also be able to advise on the best course of action for your particular claim, taking into account medical costs, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other factors. Additionally, an attorney can help ensure that you are treated fairly in negotiations with insurance companies and that all relevant parties are held accountable for their actions.
Speak with a Virginia Car Accident Attorney
Our experienced Virginia car accident attorney is dedicated to helping individuals who have been injured by the negligence of another party. We understand the physical, emotional, and financial toll an accident can have, and we are here to provide support throughout the entire legal process. Call us today at 757-383-6848 or contact us online for a free consultation.