Recognizing the Symptoms of Acute Spinal Cord Injuries

If you have been hurt in some type of accident and are feeling pain, discomfort or another abnormal sensation in any part of your body, the underlying injury could actually be to your spine. An acute spinal cord injury may have occurred even if there is no apparent harm to your back or neck. Nevertheless, spinal cord injuries are common causes of lifelong pain and disabilities and can even lead to early death. Detection and treatment are important to avoiding continued related problems.

An acute spinal cord injury (ASCI) originates from some form of trauma, whether it is the result of an auto or boating accident, an accident on premises (such as a slip and fall), an impact during athletic activity or even an injury suffered at birth. An ACIS sometimes does not get proper treatment because symptoms often arise not in the spinal cord region but other parts of the body.

The spinal cord can be thought of as a neural superhighway connecting all the body’s places to each other and to the brain, which controls them all. Nothing gets done without the spine’s involvement. If there is a problem with the spinal cord, it could show itself in several places throughout the body and in the brain.

Common symptoms of ASCI include the following:

• Severe pain in the head, neck or back
• Numbness or tingling in the lower extremities, such as legs and feet
• Inability to walk normally and without fatigue
• Difficulty in breathing
• Difficulty in maintaining balance and coordination
• Unnatural head position
• Muscle spasms
• Lapses in bladder or bowel movement control

It is not always easy to assess an ASCI, so seeking a thorough medical evaluation is vital.

If any of these symptoms arise after you have had an accident, it is important to consult with an experienced law firm. Not every ASCI results from someone else’s actions or fault but many do. An experienced brain and spinal injury law firm will know how to determine the potential liability of another party and to get you the financial compensation you need and deserve.

Seigel Law in Ridgewood, New Jersey is a full-service personal injury litigation firm. We will thoroughly evaluate your accident and the extent of your injuries in order to pursue the maximum money damages available by law. Call us at 201-444-4000 or contact us online for a free consultation.