Understanding Spinal Cord Injuries

Spinal cord injuries can be life-altering. Because the spinal cord carries signals between the brain and the rest of the body, damage to it often results in long-term mobility challenges, chronic pain, or even paralysis. In Canada, thousands of people live with the lasting effects of a spinal cord injury every day.

Whether caused by a serious car accident, a slip and fall, or another traumatic event, spinal cord injuries affect not only a person’s physical health but also their independence, mental well-being, and overall quality of life. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at what spinal cord injuries are, the most common causes, how they’re treated, and the kinds of challenges people face in recovery.

If you or a loved one has suffered a spinal cord injury in Alberta, speaking with one of our Calgary personal injury lawyers may help you better understand your legal options. Contact us today for a free consultation.

What is a Spinal Cord Injury?

A spinal cord injury (SCI) happens when damage to the spinal cord disrupts the body’s ability to send and receive signals from the brain. Depending on where the injury occurs and how severe it is, the impact can range from partial loss of movement or sensation to complete paralysis below the site of the injury.

Doctors often classify spinal cord injuries as either:

• Incomplete: Some movement or sensation remains, though it may be limited.
• Complete: All feeling and ability to control movement are lost below the injury site.

Because the spinal cord is such a delicate structure, even minor damage can have a dramatic effect on day-to-day living.

Common Causes of Spinal Cord Injuries

Spinal cord injuries are usually the result of a sudden, traumatic event. Some of the most frequent causes include:

1. Motor vehicle accidents: Car, truck, and motorcycle collisions are the leading cause of SCIs in Canada. The sudden impact can fracture vertebrae and damage spinal tissue.
2. Falls: Slipping on ice, falling from ladders, or tumbling down stairs can all lead to spinal injuries, especially among older adults.
3. Sports and recreation accidents: Activities like skiing, diving, football, and hockey sometimes result in spinal trauma.
4. Acts of violence: In rare cases, gunshot wounds or physical assaults can damage the spinal cord.
5. Medical or surgical complications: While uncommon, some spinal cord injuries occur as a result of medical procedures gone wrong.

Regardless of the cause, the impact of a spinal cord injury is often long-lasting and requires ongoing care.

Symptoms and Warning Signs

Symptoms of a spinal cord injury can vary widely, but some of the most common signs include:

• Loss of movement in any part of the body
• Numbness, tingling, or loss of sensation
• Extreme back or neck pain
• Difficulty walking or balancing
• Loss of bladder or bowel control
• Difficulty breathing (with higher-level injuries)

Because symptoms don’t always appear immediately, it’s important to seek medical attention right away if you suspect spinal trauma. Delaying care can make the injury worse.

Treatment Options

Treatment for spinal cord injuries often begins with emergency care – stabilizing the spine, reducing inflammation, and preventing further damage. Once the patient is stable, the focus shifts to long-term management and rehabilitation.

Typical treatments may include:

• Medications: To control pain, reduce swelling, or manage related complications.
• Surgery: To remove bone fragments, stabilize fractured vertebrae, or relieve pressure on the spinal cord.
• Rehabilitation: Ongoing physical therapy and occupational therapy to help patients regain function and adapt to new limitations.
• Assistive devices: Such as wheelchairs, braces, or mobility aids to improve independence.

Advances in medical research continue to create new treatment possibilities, including experimental therapies that may one day help regenerate damaged spinal tissue.

Life After a Spinal Cord Injury

Living with a spinal cord injury brings many challenges – both physical and emotional. Beyond the initial recovery process, people often face:

• Mobility limitations requiring wheelchairs or walking aids
• Chronic pain and muscle spasms
• Mental health struggles such as depression or anxiety
• Lifestyle changes related to work, hobbies, and social activities
• Ongoing financial strain due to medical bills, home modifications, or lost income

Support from family, friends, rehabilitation specialists, and mental health professionals plays an essential role in helping someone adjust after a spinal cord injury.

Legal Considerations After a Spinal Cord Injury

Because spinal cord injuries often result from traumatic accidents (e.g., motor vehicle collisions or serious falls), many people may be entitled to compensation. Damages may cover:

• Medical expenses and future care costs
• Lost wages and reduced earning capacity
• Pain and suffering
• Rehabilitation and home modifications
• Long-term attendant care

Spinal cord injury claims can be complex, especially when multiple parties are involved (i.e., drivers, property owners, or insurers). Having an experienced legal team on your side can help ensure your rights are protected. At Preszler Injury Lawyers Alberta, our Calgary spinal cord injury lawyers help accident victims receive the care and compensation they need to move forward.

What to Do If You or a Loved One Suffers a Spinal Cord Injury

If you or someone close to you has experienced a spinal cord injury, it’s important to:

• Get emergency medical care immediately
• Follow through with all recommended treatment and rehabilitation
• Keep detailed records of your medical expenses and recovery progress
• Speak to a personal injury lawyer about your legal rights and potential compensation

Need Help? Contact Preszler Injury Lawyers Alberta

At Preszler Injury Lawyers, we know how devastating a spinal cord injury can be – not just physically, but emotionally and financially as well. Our legal team has experience helping Albertans navigate these difficult situations and pursue the compensation they deserve.

We offer free consultations and work on a contingency-fee basis, which means you don’t pay unless we win your case.

If you or a family member has suffered a spinal cord injury due to someone else’s negligence, call us today at 1-888-494-7191 or contact our Calgary office. We’re available day or night to listen, answer your questions, and guide you through the next steps.