What Are the Leading Causes of Spinal Cord Injuries?

June 6, 2018 - Spinal Cord Injury

The human spinal cord travels down the spine for about 19 inches from the base of the brain. If a spinal cord injury involves a tear, it’s likely to be what the American Medical Association categorizes as a catastrophic injury. That tear isn’t going to heal, and there will be permanent paralysis. The extent of that paralysis depends on whether the tear is complete or incomplete.

Incomplete and Complete Tears

With a partial or incomplete tear, there will be paraplegia. There might be some movement or sensation below where the tear is located. With a complete tear, the spinal cord is severed, and the victim will suffer quadriplegia and have no movement or sensation below the level of the tear. Bodily functions are also likely to be affected.

Leading Causes of Spinal Cord Injuries

As per the Mayo Clinic, auto and motorcycle accidents account for nearly half of all spinal cord injuries in the country. Falls account for about 15 per cent of such injuries, especially if the victim is more than 65-years-old. Sadly, acts of violence like gunshot wounds and stabbings consist of about 12 per cent of all spinal cord injuries. Behind acts of violence are athletic activities like football, ice hockey, gymnastics and diving. The Mayo Clinic found that alcohol is a factor in about 25 per cent of all spinal cord injuries.

If you or a family member has suffered a partial or complete spinal cord injury, contact a San Antonio spinal cord injury lawyer at Reyna Law Firm. We’re careful listeners. We’ll answer your questions and work with you closely in seeking the compensation that you and your family need. If we’re retained to represent you or your loved one, no legal fees are even due unless we obtain a settlement or verdict for you. Contact us as soon as possible after any spinal cord injury for a free consultation and case evaluation.

For more information on our San Antonio Spinal Cord Injury Lawyer, please visit our site