Spinal cord injuries can have lasting effects on your mobility and overall well-being. Such severe wounds are more common on job sites, where an employer or even a third party could be responsible.
While paralysis is a common indicator of spinal cord damage, there are other signs to be aware of. If you notice any of these after a work accident, seek prompt medical attention.
Less common signs of spinal cord injury
Any unexpected back pain might indicate trauma to the spinal cord. Discomfort that sits between the hips and neck is particularly suspect, especially after an event like a car accident or fall. This pain may be persistent and worsen over time.
Likewise, a sudden decrease in the ability to move your arms, legs or other body parts without any apparent cause could be a sign of spinal cord injury. A precursor to this may be changes in sensation. Take note of any tingling, weakness or numbness in your extremities, such as your arms, legs, hands or feet. This may indicate nerve damage that results from a spinal cord injury.
Although less common, changes in vision or hearing following a traumatic event may stem from spinal cord damage. Severe and persistent headaches after a traumatic incident could be another symptom.
Possible treatments for spinal cord injuries
Prompt diagnosis and treatment can significantly improve outcomes in cases of spinal cord injuries. While each case is unique, several treatments are possible.
- Physical therapy often plays a vital role in strengthening muscles, improving mobility and enhancing overall function. It can help you regain control over your movements and improve your quality of life.
- Pain management will also be a factor. You will likely receive prescriptions to manage pain and discomfort, allowing you to engage in daily activities more comfortably. In more serious cases, epidural steroid injections may be necessary to reduce inflammation and alleviate pain.
- The most severe cases require surgery. This will remove tissue or fluid pressing on your spinal cord, extract bone fragments or stabilize the spine through fusion or implantation of braces.
Recognizing the less common signs of spinal cord injuries and seeking timely medical attention can lead to better outcomes. As a result, you should not hesitate to pursue compensation that will help you cover the costs.
If you need help recovering damages from a spinal cord injury on the job, contact our workers’ compensation and third-party personal injury specialists for a free consultation to learn how we can help.