When an individual is injured, first responders provide initial treatment and transport the victim to a hospital. In doing so, they commonly exercise precautions like stabilizing the patient’s back and neck in case his or her spinal cord has been affected in the accident. These types of precautions help to avoid causing the victim additional harm to her or her spinal cord.
Detecting a spinal cord injury
When a person is injured in an accident, such as a motor vehicle collision, a slip and fall or another type of trauma, symptoms of a spinal cord injury can include:
- Severe back pain
- Tingling or numbness in extremities
- Pressure in the head, neck or back
- Difficulty breathing
- Trouble walking
- Balance problems
- Bladder control issues
Immediate treatment can improve the chances of recovery
it is critical that those who suspect they have suffered a spinal cord injury receive immediate medical attention. If left untreated, spinal cord damage can result in lingering pain or numbness, compromised motor function, or pain that increases to the point where it becomes unbearable. The long-terms consequences of a spinal cord injury can also be debilitating and can result in paralysis.
Victims of spinal cord injuries that were caused by negligence may consider filing a personal injury lawsuit, which can help cover medical expenses, loss of income, and pain and suffering.