Degenerative Spinal Injuries vs. Traumatic Spinal Injuries
Broadly speaking, a spinal injury can either be categorized as “degenerative” or “traumatic”. A degenerative spinal injury is one that results from wear and tear over time. Some degenerative conditions are also hereditary in nature.
Most spinal cord injuries result are classified as traumatic. A traumatic injury is usually an acute spinal cord injury that results from an accident. This could be a vehicle accident, a bicycle accident, a fall, a collision with an object or another person, or any of a variety of other types of traumatic events.Causes of Traumatic Spinal Cord Injuries
Spinal cord injuries can have devastating and life-altering consequences. They often result from traumatic events, many of which may involve negligence, recklessness, or unsafe conditions. As a personal injury law firm representing accident victims, we handle many cases involving traumatic spinal cord injuries. Here, we delve into some of the common causes of these injuries.Motor Vehicle Accidents
Motor vehicle accidents, including car, motorcycle, and truck accidents, are the leading cause of spinal cord injuries. These incidents can result in severe injuries due to high-speed impacts, rollovers, and collisions. If another party's negligent driving contributed to the accident, they could be held legally responsible.Falls
Falls, particularly from significant heights or in unsafe conditions, often lead to traumatic spinal cord injury. These falls can occur in various settings, including construction sites, homes, and public places. Property owners or employers may be held liable if they failed to maintain a safe environment or neglected their duty of care.Acts of Violence
Violence, such as gunshot wounds or knife attacks, can cause spinal cord injuries. In these cases, the perpetrator can be held responsible both criminally and civilly. Even if a criminal case does not result in a conviction, victims can still pursue a civil case for damages.Sports and Recreational Activities
High-impact sports and recreational activities like football, skiing, diving, or gymnastics can result in spinal cord injuries, especially if appropriate safety measures are not taken. Liability can rest with negligent coaches, event organizers, or equipment manufacturers.Medical Malpractice
Spinal cord injuries can also be a result of medical malpractice, such as surgical errors, improper management of spinal cord diseases, or misdiagnosis. Medical professionals can be held accountable if their negligence directly resulted in injury. Remember, if you or a loved one has suffered a spinal cord injury due to someone else's negligence, you have the right to seek legal remedy. Our experienced personal injury attorneys are dedicated to advocating for victims and their families, fighting for justice, and securing the compensation you need for medical expenses, loss of income, and pain and suffering. Generally speaking, the options for recovering financial compensation for a degenerative spinal injury are limited (although there are options, for example, if you got hurt at work). On the other hand, individuals who suffer traumatic spinal injuries in serious accidents will often have claims for just compensation. Understanding the Spine and Its Vital Role in the Body
Before we explore different types of spinal injuries, it’s important to understand the role the spine plays in your body. Your spine is like the central pillar of a building; it provides stability while also allowing flexibility and movement. It is composed of 33 individual vertebrae grouped into five main regions:1. Cervical Spine (Neck)
The cervical spine consists of the upper seven vertebrae (C1 to C7). This region supports the weight of your head and allows for a wide range of motion such as turning and tilting your head. However, because it is highly mobile, it is particularly vulnerable to injury.2. Thoracic Spine (Upper Back)
The thoracic spine includes 12 vertebrae (T1 to T12) that connect to your ribs and form the foundation of your upper body. This section of the spine is less flexible than the cervical region but provides critical structural support and shields vital organs, like your heart and lungs.3. Lumbar Spine (Lower Back)
The lumbar spine consists of five vertebrae (L1 to L5) and bears much of your body’s weight. It is built for strength, but because it endures so much stress, it is a common site of injury.4. Sacral Spine (Pelvic Area)
The sacral spine includes five fused vertebrae (S1 to S5) that form the back of the pelvis. It works closely with the lumbar spine and hips to support the lower body.5. Coccygeal Spine (Tailbone)
At the very bottom of the spine is the coccyx, or tailbone, which consists of four fused vertebrae. Though small, these vertebrae provide balance and stability when you sit. The spine also houses and protects the spinal cord, a vital part of your central nervous system. This bundle of nerves transmits signals between your brain and the rest of your body, controlling movement, sensation, and even essential functions like breathing. When your spine is injured, it can affect your health in profound ways.Complete vs. Incomplete Spinal Cord Injuries
Next, doctors will generally describe spinal injuries as either “complete” or “incomplete.” Some doctors also classify spinal injuries according to the American Spinal Injury Association (ASIA) grading scale.
Complete Spinal Cord Injuries
Complete spinal cord injuries result in the total loss of function below the level of the injury. A complete spinal cord injury is often severe and typically involves the full width of the spinal cord being damaged or affected, causing permanent paralysis and loss of sensation in the body areas controlled by the sections of the spinal cord below the injury site. In medical terminology, complete injuries are classified as American Spinal Injury Association (ASIA) grade A.ASIA A - Complete Spinal Injury
ASIA A grade is assigned to complete spinal cord injuries where no sensory or motor function is preserved in the sacral segments S4-S5. This classification indicates a complete injury, suggesting that the patient has lost all feeling and the ability to control movement below the level of the injury. Rehabilitation and management strategies for these patients primarily focus on improving their quality of life and adaptation to the new physical limitations.Incomplete Spinal Cord Injuries
Incomplete spinal cord injuries result in only partial damage to the spinal cord, which implies that there is some level of function or sensation below the injury site. The degree of function can vary significantly from almost normal function to severe impairment. Incomplete injuries are further classified into ASIA B, C, and D grades.ASIA B - Incomplete Spinal Injury with Sensory Preservation
ASIA B is an incomplete spinal cord injury classification where there is a complete loss of motor functions, but sensory functions are preserved below the neurological level, including the sacral segments S4-S5. Patients may be able to feel touch, pressure, or a change in temperature, but they are unable to control movement.ASIA C - Incomplete Spinal Injury with Some Motor Function
ASIA C grade is given to spinal cord injuries that result in a significant degree of preserved motor function. In this case, less than half of the muscle groups are able to perform an anti-gravity movement, which involves the ability to lift up against the force of gravity with a full range of motion. This indicates that while motor function is affected, some degree of control still exists.ASIA D - Incomplete Spinal Injury with More Motor Function
ASIA D is classified as an incomplete injury where more than half of the muscle groups below the neurological level are able to perform anti-gravity movements. This means that patients with ASIA D have preserved motor function, but it varies in its effectiveness. Despite the injury, these individuals have a better chance of regaining more function with appropriate therapy and rehabilitation.Common Types of Spinal Injuries
Spinal injuries come in many forms, depending on how and where the spine is damaged. Below are some of the most common types, along with their causes, symptoms, and treatment options.1. Spinal Fractures
A spinal fracture occurs when one or more vertebrae in the spine break. These injuries can range from small hairline fractures to severe displacement of vertebrae. Causes: Spinal fractures often result from high-impact events such as car accidents, falls, sports injuries, or acts of violence. Osteoporosis may also weaken bones, making them more susceptible to fractures. Symptoms:- Sudden, sharp pain in the back or neck
- Limited mobility
- Numbness or tingling in the limbs (if the spinal cord is affected)
- Muscle weakness
- Mild fractures: Often managed with bracing, rest, and pain medication.
- Severe fractures: May require surgery, such as spinal fusion or the insertion of rods to stabilize the spine.
2. Herniated Discs
Also referred to as a slipped or ruptured disc, this injury occurs when the soft, jelly-like material inside a disc pushes out through a tear in the outer layer. Causes: Herniated discs can result from wear and tear (degenerative disc disease), lifting heavy objects incorrectly, or trauma such as a car accident. Symptoms:- Intense pain in the back, neck, or limbs
- Tingling or numbness
- Weakness in muscles near the affected area
- Non-surgical methods, including physical therapy, anti-inflammatory medications, corticosteroid injections, and lifestyle adjustments.
- Surgery, like a discectomy, may be necessary in severe cases.
3. Spinal Cord Injuries (SCI)
Spinal cord injuries involve damage to the nerves within the spinal cord, disrupting communication between the brain and the body. These injuries are classified as either complete or incomplete:- Complete SCI: Total loss of sensation and function below the level of injury.
- Incomplete SCI: Partial loss, with some communication still intact.
- Loss of movement or sensation
- Difficulty breathing or controlling bodily functions
- Chronic pain or pressure in the spine
4. Sprains and Strains
These injuries involve overstretching or tearing of ligaments (sprains) or muscles and tendons (strains) in the back. Causes: Sudden movements, improper lifting techniques, or overuse during physical activity. Symptoms:- Localized back pain
- Muscle stiffness or spasms
- Swelling or bruising
5. Degenerative Spinal Conditions
Traumatic injuries can speed up existing conditions like arthritis, degenerative disc disease, or spinal stenosis, causing significant pain and decreased function. Causes: Aging, previous spine injuries, or genetic factors that weaken vertebrae and discs. Symptoms:- Persistent back pain
- Loss of flexibility
- Increased discomfort with physical activity
Recognizing Common Symptoms of Spinal Injuries
Not all spinal injuries present with immediate, dramatic symptoms. Some may develop over days or weeks, making it easy to dismiss initial discomfort. Here are some overall common warning signs to look out for:- Sudden or persistent back pain
- Numbness or tingling in your hands, feet, or limbs
- Loss of balance or coordination
- Difficulty walking
- Muscle weakness
- Bladder or bowel control issues
The Emotional and Psychological Impact of Spinal Injuries
Spinal injuries don’t just affect your body; they can take a toll on your mental and emotional well-being. It’s normal to feel grief, anger, or even hopelessness as you adjust to life with new limitations. You may also face challenges such as:- Chronic pain, which can lead to fatigue or depression.
- Loss of independence, which affects self-confidence and self-esteem.
- Anxiety about the future or your ability to return to work.
FAQs About Spinal Injuries
Spinal injuries can feel overwhelming, and it’s natural to have a lot of questions about what lies ahead. The recovery process can vary greatly depending on the severity of the injury, the type of treatment needed, and your overall health. To help, we’ve addressed some of the most common questions people have about spinal injuries so you can feel more confident as you move forward.1. How Long Does Recovery Take After a Spinal Injury?
Recovery time after a spinal injury depends on the type and severity of the injury. For minor injuries such as sprains, strains, or mild fractures, recovery might take weeks to a few months. With proper rest, therapy, and gradual reintroduction to activities, many people return to their normal routines within this timeframe. For more serious injuries, such as spinal cord damage or herniated discs, recovery can take months or even years. Progress is often slow and may require ongoing treatments like physical therapy, occupational therapy, or even surgeries. It’s important to remember that every person heals at their own pace, and building strength and mobility may be a long-term commitment.2. Can Spinal Injuries Heal Completely?
The ability for a spinal injury to heal fully depends on the type of injury. For example, muscle strains, ligament sprains, and fractures can heal completely with the right combination of treatment and time. However, injuries involving the spinal cord itself, such as spinal cord injuries (SCI), are more complex. Spinal cord injuries are often permanent and may result in lasting impairments, particularly when the injury is classified as "complete" (indicating total loss of sensation or function below the injured area). However, individuals with incomplete spinal cord injuries may recover some movement or sensation over time. Advancements in medical treatments, rehabilitation therapies, and assistive technologies continue to bring hope, improving outcomes and quality of life for many.3. What Are the Long-Term Effects of Spinal Injuries?
The long-term effects of a spinal injury depend on the injury's severity and location. While minor injuries might leave no lasting issues, more significant injuries can result in ongoing challenges. These might include:- Chronic pain or stiffness in the back or neck.
- Reduced flexibility or range of motion.
- Weakness or numbness in certain parts of the body.
- Mobility challenges that may require assistive devices like walkers or wheelchairs.
- Mental and emotional impacts, including depression or anxiety, due to lifestyle adjustments.
4. Is Surgery Always Necessary for Spinal Injuries?
No, surgery is not always required for spinal injuries. Many injuries, especially less severe ones like sprains, minor fractures, or herniated discs, can be treated with non-surgical approaches. These might include physical therapy, pain management, bracing, or corticosteroid injections. Surgery typically becomes necessary when:- There is significant damage to the spine requiring stabilization (e.g., after severe fractures or trauma).
- A herniated disc is causing extreme pain, loss of mobility, or nerve damage that doesn’t improve with conservative treatments.
- Spinal cord compression is threatening to cause permanent impairment.
What are the Different Types of Spinal Injuries: Final Thoughts
Spinal injuries raise many valid concerns, and it’s comforting to know that many of them can be addressed with appropriate care, treatment, and support. From understanding the timeline for recovery to knowing what steps to take after an injury, being informed helps you regain control in what can feel like an overwhelming situation. The most important thing is to never delay seeking medical attention. The sooner you get the care you need, the better your chances of recovery. Keep asking questions, leaning on experts, and making decisions that support your long-term health and well-being.