Ever since actor Christopher Reeve fell from a horse and became paralyzed from a spinal cord injury, advocacy, awareness and fundraising for spinal cord injuries have multiplied. Due to this, scientists are hopeful that enough advancement will be made to fully repair a person’s spinal cord. However, until that time arrives, suffering from partial or full paralysis is life changing.



Most Common Causes



It’s estimated that there are more than 10,500 spinal cord injury cases per year in the United States, the majority of which (78%) involve males between the ages of 16-30. Spinal cord injuries result from high-risk behavior, partially explaining why men are the most common recipients.




  • Automobile Accidents account for nearly 50 percent of spinal cord injuries, more than any other cause.

  • Violent altercations, often involving guns or knives, cause approximately 15 percent of spinal cord injuries.

  • Falls cause a little more than 20% of spinal cord injuries and is the leading cause for adults over the age of 65.

  • Athletic activities, particularly high-impact sports, cause nearly 10 percent of spinal cord injuries.



Symptoms



A spinal cord injury isn’t always immediately evident. Dependent on the type and severity of the injury, numbness might arrive immediately or gradually. Outside of the injury’s severity, receiving immediate treatment is the most decisive factor in one’s ability to recover.



The following are red flags, indicated that 911 should be called immediately:




  • Loss of balance and difficulty walking

  • Numbness or a tingling sensation in feet, toes, hands, or fingers

  • Fading in and out of consciousness

  • Mounting pressure in the back, neck or head

  • Difficulty breathing

  • Loss of bladder and/or bowel control



If one is experiencing these symptoms, after dialing 911, it’s imperative that you:




  • Keep the patient still

  • Place heavy towels or clothing such as a jacket on both sides of the neck to prevent it from moving. If these materials are unavailable, hold the head and neck until care arrives

  • Provide basic first aid to reduce the risk of shock. Do so without moving the neck and head



Living With a Spinal Cord Injury



Like brain injury , spinal cord injury is perhaps the most drastic and immediate life-changing event one can experience. If you or a loved one suffers from one, your entire style of life will change, beginning with the most basic daily activities.



More than anything, recovery requires a strong will and an open heart. The grieving process can be similar to experiencing a death in the family. Denial, sadness and anger are common emotions and shouldn’t be suppressed. Eventually comes acceptance.



Taking care of yourself and maintaining a well-balanced diet is important to your overall mental and physical health.



If you’ve suffered from a spinal cord injury due to another party’s negligence in Atlanta or anywhere in Georgia, you might be entitled to compensation, which will make your recovery that much easier. Please contact Robbins & Associates, PC for your free consultation.