A Serious Accident Can Lead to Spinal Cord Compression

The spinal cord is a vital part of the body that sends sensations to the brain and returns motor commands to the various parts of the body. An injury can put pressure on the spinal cord, resulting in numerous problems. The spinal cord can be compressed by bone, blood, pus, tumors or a herniated disc. It is a painful condition that can significantly impact your life.

When the back is broken in a car accident, motorcycle accident or other catastrophic event, the bones can compress the spinal cord. A severe spinal cord injury can cause the ligaments to put pressure on the spinal cord. Blood has also been known to accumulate following an accident, which can also result in spinal cord compression.

No matter what causes the spinal cord to be compressed, it can be excruciatingly painful and debilitating. Some of the symptoms of spinal cord compression include the following:

• Back pain
• Strange sensations
• Weakness in the muscles
• Impaired bladder and bowel control
  

These symptoms can range from mild to severe. Because spinal cord compression can either happen suddenly or over time, it is not unusual for the symptoms to take minutes up to several days to appear. The symptoms may also get worse over a few weeks or months.

A doctor is able to diagnose spinal cord compression through various tests, including an MRI. Once the condition has been diagnosed, the best course of treatment will be recommended. Corticosteroid drugs are sometimes prescribed, but in some cases, surgery is needed to relieve the pressure.

If you have suffered from spinal cord compression from an accident caused by someone else’s negligence, you may be entitled to compensation for your injuries. You should contact a St. Petersburg accident attorney at the Law Offices of William K. Saron at (727) 345-4566 or (866) 836-4947 for legal advice.