How Accident Related Injuries Can Cause Spinal Cord Disorders

As the main pathway of communication between the brain and the rest of the body, when the spinal cord is injured in an accident, it most always results in a loss of function below the site of the injury. For example, if the spinal cord is severely damaged in the middle of the back, the arms function normally, but the legs may be paralyzed. Function in the affected area as well as muscle control is usually lost.

The spinal cord is protected by the back bones, or vetebrae, of the spine (spinal column) which are separated and cushioned by disks made of cartilage. Through the vetebrae, a long, fragile, tubelike structure (spinal cord) extends downward from the brain. Along the length of the spinal cord, 31 pairs of spinal nerves emerge through spaces between the vertebrae. These nerves connect with other nerves throughout the body. Each spinal nerve had two nerve roots. The root in the front (known as the motor root) transmits impulses from the spinal cord to the muscles. The root in the back (known as the sensory root) carries sensory information from the body to the spinal cord.

Because of the function and organization of the spinal cord, damage to the cord can induce various patterns of symptoms, such as numbness, weakness, loss of sensation, loss of bowel and bladder function, and paralysis as well as back pain.

After an accident to the spinal cord, the first goal is to prevent further damage. Emergency personnel in an accident situation should be careful in moving a person with a possible spinal cord injury, usually by strapping the person to a firm board that is carefully padded to prevent movement. Even the slightest shifting of a spinal cord injury victim can increase the chances of permanent paralysis.

Usually, doctors give medication to immediately help prevent swelling around the injury. If the spine has been fractured or otherwise injured, a surgeon may implant steel rods to stabilize it because further movement may cause additional injury. Additionally, doctors may remove blood and bone fragments that have accumulated around the spinal cord. While the injury heals, skilled nursing care is also recommended to prevent complications.

Extensive loss of body functions due to spinal cord injuries can be devastating, additionally causing depression and loss of self esteem. Knowing exactly what has happened and what to expect in the near and distant future can help people to cope with the loss.

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The Monahan Law Practice
300 North Pottstown Pike
Suite 210
Exton, PA 19341-2233

Phone: (610) 363-3888
Fax: (610) 363-2429