Causes of Paralysis in Columbia
Paralysis is often the result of spinal cord trauma and causes the loss of muscle function and movement control in one or more areas of the body. It may be partial or complete, depending on the severity of the injury. While trauma to the back, spinal cord, and surrounding nerves and tissue is the most common cause, it can also occur after a traumatic brain injury.
You can pursue compensation if you sustained injuries because of someone else’s recklessness. Contact a skilled paralysis injury attorney for more information about the causes of paralysis in Columbia.
The Most Common Causes
Any accident that causes someone to sustain trauma to the back, spinal cord, or surrounding tissue and nerves can cause paralysis of one or more body parts. Some examples include:
- Car crashes
- Sports accidents
- Medical malpractice
- Motorcycle wrecks
- Workplace accidents
- Falls from heights or slipping and falling
- Violence, including gunshots, knife wounds, or assault
Prompt medical care is crucial after spinal cord injuries to assess the damage and begin treatment immediately. Treatment may include physical therapy and rehabilitation, assistive devices to improve mobility, and surgical procedures. An attorney knowledgeable about the causes of paralysis in Columbia could review the case details to determine liability and gather the evidence needed to obtain a just settlement.
Partial Versus Complete Paralysis
Partial paralysis injuries occur when the spinal cord sustains trauma but remains intact. The individual retains some muscle function, movement ability, and sensations in the affected area, which may be temporary or permanent.
Complete paralysis results from trauma causing total severage of the spinal cord, and there is no muscle function, sensation, or ability to control movement below the location of the injury. A complete spinal cord injury usually causes permanent disabilities.
Different Types of Paralysis
Different types of paralysis affect various body parts, and some of the most common include:
- Monoplegia is a type of paralysis affecting one limb, such as a leg or arm
- Hemiplegia affects one side of the body, such as an arm and leg, and sometimes one side of the individual’s face
- Paraplegia is paralysis of the lower body, including the legs and sometimes the trunk
- Quadriplegia often affects everything below the neck, including the four limbs and trunk
Another form, known as localized paralysis, affects one specific area, such as the face, vocal cords, feet, or hands.
Treatment and Rehabilitation
Over 80 percent of Americans with spinal cord injuries suffer from secondary complications that can cause long-term physical health problems and affect their overall well-being. Examples include bladder and bowel control problems, respiratory issues, and chronic pain, which can have long-term adverse effects, impacting the patient’s life significantly.
Fortunately, specialized rehabilitation services can help maximize independence and improve the individual’s quality of life. During the consultation, a lawyer familiar with the causes of paralysis in Columbia could answer specific questions about available medical care and the recovery claims process.
Speak to an Experienced Attorney About Paralysis Causes in Columbia
The nervous system, including the spinal cord, is complex and vulnerable, and an injury can leave you with severe physical, emotional, and financial damages. An injury can have devastating effects on you and your family and change nearly every part of your life.
If you sustained debilitating injuries because of another person or business’s negligence, you must hold them accountable. A compassionate lawyer knowledgeable about the causes of paralysis in Columbia could answer your questions and help you obtain a just settlement from the liable party. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.