A spinal cord injury is severe damage to the tight group of cells and nerve roots in the spine that send and receive signals from the brain to and from the rest of the body. The spine is divided into sections – cervical, thoracic, lumbar, and sacral.
The level of injury can impact the outcome and abilities post-injury and during recovery.
Adults and children alike can suffer a spinal cord injury.
An injury can be caused by a direct impact on the spinal cord itself or by damage to the tissue and bones (vertebrae) surrounding the spinal cord column. Injury may arise as a result of:
- an infection to the bone (osteomyelitis)
- an infection of the intervertebral disc space (discitis)
- infection by way of a spinal abscess
- due to bleeding (spinal haematoma)
- a spinal stroke (spinal infarct)
- due to a tumour
- cauda equina syndrome
- injuries during or immediately after surgery
- scoliosis, which can develop in children who have cerebral palsy
Depending on the severity and level of the injury, it can result in temporary or permanent changes in sensation, movement, mobility, strength, bowel, and bladder functions.
A spinal cord injury can cause one or more symptoms, which may include:
- Pain
- Loss of movement
- Altered or loss of sensation, which includes the ability to feel heat, cold, and touch
- Numbness, tingling, loss of, or changes in sensation in the hands and feet
- Paralysis that might occur immediately or worsen over time, as swelling and bleeding impact the spinal cord
- Pain or pressure in the back, head, or neck
- Issues moving any part of the body
- Curvature of the spine
- Dysfunction of the bladder and bowel
- Mobility difficulties
- Difficulty breathing, coughing, or clearing secretions from your lungs
- Changes in sexual function, sensitivity, and fertility
Delays in diagnosis or treatment
Delays in diagnosing and treating a spinal cord injury can lead to serious neurological symptoms and permanent disability. Such injuries are devastating for the individual and their families.
Spinal cord injuries may be considered rare within the primary care and hospital setting, but it is vital that those treating patients are aware of the symptoms and appropriate diagnosis and treatment is provided.
How we can help
Emma Zukowska is a Partner in our Medical Negligence team, which has been ranked in tier one by the independently researched publication, The Legal 500. The team are experienced in spinal cord negligence compensation claims and are business members of the SIA.
As spinal cord injuries are complex claims, it is vital to get specialist advice from solicitors who are experienced in dealing with these types of claims. Securing an early admission of liability is vital as this can enable us to obtain interim payments which can help to fund rehabilitation, aids and equipment, accommodation and care and assistance.
At Nelsons, we have a strong track record of achieving substantial compensation for those who have sustained a spinal cord injury and understand the ongoing support and rehabilitation needs that are required after a spinal injury. We work closely with medical and rehabilitation teams to ensure that you or your loved one receive the support required.
For further information on how we can assist with spinal cord injury claims, please contact us on 0800 024 1976 or complete our contact form.
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