What You Need to Know About Accident-Related Spinal Cord Injuries
Spine and spinal cord injuries can range in severity. They may be relatively minor to catastrophic, resulting in permanent damage. Serious spine injuries can require years of rehabilitation or even lifelong care. If you sustain an injury to your spine after a car accident, you need to speak with an attorney. You might be entitled to compensation for your injuries.
At Richard Schwartz & Associates, P.A., we provide legal representation for individuals who have sustained serious injuries in car accidents throughout Mississippi. Our lawyers will help you understand your rights, including your right to compensation for your injuries. Contact our office today to schedule your free, no-obligation consultation.
Parts of the Spine
The spine is an integral part of your body. It helps give your body the support it needs to stand and move. When the spine is damaged, it can be debilitating. The spine protects your spinal cord, which is a series of nerves that connect your brain to the rest of your body. When the spine or spinal cord is injured, it can severely limit the control you have over your extremities.
There are several parts of your spine, including the:
- Cervical - The cervical section of the spine is connected to the base of the skull and includes the top seven vertebrae, frequently referred to as C1-C7.
- Thoracic - The middle section of the spine is referred to as the thoracic and includes vertebrae T1-T12.
- Lumbar - The lower section of the spine is the lumbar or vertebrae L1-L5. The lumbar section bears the most weight of the spine.
- Sacrum - The sacrum is fused together at the end of the spine with no discs separating the five vertebrae. It is connected to the pelvis.
- Coccyx - The coccyx is another set of vertebrae that are fused together at the end of the spine below the sacral vertebrae.
While all parts of the spine can be injured during an accident, certain areas are more susceptible to serious harm. Any back pain after a crash should be evaluated immediately. Failure to seek medical treatment can make the injury worse, and cause further pain and discomfort. You should also speak to a spine injury attorney to determine your rights.
Parts of the Spine Most Vulnerable to Injury
Two of the most vulnerable areas of the spine to injury include the cervical and lumbar sections. The sudden impact of a collision can cause the neck to be thrown backward and forward violently, causing severe damage. Whiplash is a common condition caused by car accidents that affects the cervical section of the spine. Herniated discs and fractures are other frequent injuries affecting the upper vertebrae of the spine.
The lumbar section or the lower back can also be deeply impacted by an accident. The collision may cause the spine to become compressed or stretched, damaging the vertebrae or discs. An injury to the lumbar section can affect your bowel control and cause you to become immobile.
Did You Sustain a Spine Injury? Contact Our Office.
If you sustain a spine injury as a result of an injury, contact our office to schedule a free, no-obligation consultation. Our lawyers will work to ensure you receive the largest possible recovery on your case. Call now to get started.
