Atlanta Spinal Cord Injury Lawyer

Our Atlanta personal injury law firm has represented numerous people throughout Georgia who have suffered spine injuries after car wrecks, truck accidents, and falls at various premises.

Injury to the spinal cord can be a devastating occurrence with lifelong consequences. The spinal cord controls many aspects of crucial bodily functions, including the ability to move and control limbs. Spine injuries may result in some or all of the following symptoms:

Loss of sensation
Loss of respiratory function
Loss of bladder or bowel control
Loss of movement
Tingling or burning sensation near the affected area
Pain

Injury to the spine may be caused by a traumatic event, such as from a sudden blow to the area that fractures, dislocates, compresses, or crushes the vertebrae. Or, the injury might occur from a penetrating event (like a bullet or knife). Alternatively, injury to the spine may be non-traumatic, caused by inflammation, infection, or fluid accumulation in and around the spine. The most common causes of spinal cord injury are: motor vehicle crashes, violent encounters, falls, sports injuries, and diseases.

Sometimes, spine injuries are classified as “complete” or “incomplete.” In a complete injury, all sensory/feeling is lost below the level of the injury. For example, if the injury is to the thoracic (“T” / chest level) vertebrae, the chest, abdomen, and legs may be affected by total loss of feeling. In an incomplete injury, some sensory/feeling is retained below the level of the injury. Also, paralysis which results from an injury to the spine may be classified as follows:

Tetraplegia or quadriplegia – The arms, trunk (mid-section), legs, and pelvic organs are affected.
Paraplegia – All or part of the trunk, legs, and pelvic organs are affected.

Men are far more prone to spine injuries than woman (The Mayo Clinic estimates that woman account for approximately 20% of spinal cord injuries). In addition, those ages 16 to 30 are at the highest risk for spine injuries. Finally, an underlying bone or joint disorder increases one’s risk for sustaining a significant spine injury.

Individuals suffering spinal cord injuries often need around the clock medical care, assistance with activities of daily living, and modifications to the home environment.

One of the best facilities in the Southeast for individuals with catastrophic spinal cord injuries is the Shepherd Center in Atlanta, Georgia.

For a good general overview of spinal cord injuries, symptoms, and treatments, visit the Mayo Clinic’s website.

For general support and information concerning spine injuries, see:

American Spinal Injury Association

Spinal Cord Injury Information Network