St. Louis car accident compensation for spinal cord injury

Car accidents are a leading cause of spinal cord injuries (SCIs) in the United States. If you've suffered an SCI in a St. Louis car accident, understanding the different types of injuries is crucial. Here's a detailed breakdown:

Completeness of Injury:

  • Tetraplegia (Quadriplegia): This most severe SCI results in paralysis of all four limbs and the torso. Loss of bladder and bowel control is also common.
  • Paraplegia: Loss of movement and sensation in the lower limbs (legs) with varying degrees of impairment in the torso and bowel/bladder function.

Neurological Level of Injury:

  • Cervical (Neck): Cervical SCIs affect the neck and upper body, with varying degrees of paralysis in the arms, hands, legs, and torso depending on the specific vertebrae injured. Diaphragm function (breathing) can also be compromised in higher cervical injuries.
  • Thoracic (Mid-Back): Thoracic SCIs affect the chest and torso, resulting in paralysis in the legs, trunk, and abdominal muscles. Arm function is typically not affected.
  • Lumbar (Lower Back): Lumbar SCIs affect the lower back and pelvis, causing paralysis in the legs and potentially impacting bowel/bladder control.

Classification by Function:

  • American Spinal Injury Association (ASIA) Impairment Scale (AIS): This standardized scale classifies SCIs based on the degree of motor and sensory function remaining below the level of injury.

    • AIS A: Complete SCI with no voluntary motor function below the level of injury and no preserved sensory function (most severe)
    • AIS B: Incomplete SCI with some preservation of muscle movement but inability to move a joint against gravity
    • AIS C: Incomplete SCI with some voluntary movement against gravity but inability to move against full resistance
    • AIS D: Incomplete SCI with good muscle power and near-normal movement; may have some limitations
    • AIS E: Normal motor and sensory function (considered a spinal cord injury, but no neurological impairment)

Specific Injuries:

  • Anterior Cord Syndrome (ACS): Damage to the front of the spinal cord, primarily affecting motor function with some preservation of sensory function.
  • Central Cord Syndrome (CCS): Damage to the center of the spinal cord, mainly impacting hand and arm function while legs might retain some movement.
  • Brown-Séquard Syndrome (BSS): Unilateral damage to the spinal cord, resulting in paralysis and loss of sensation on one side of the body and preserved sensation on the other.

Treatment and Recovery:

The type and severity of your SCI will determine the specific treatment plan. SCI treatment often involves a combination of:

  • Surgery: To stabilize the spine and prevent further damage.
  • Medication: To manage pain, spasticity, and other symptoms.
  • Physical and Occupational Therapy: To regain strength, improve mobility, and relearn daily living skills.

Impact of SCI:

SCIs can have a profound impact on a person's life, affecting mobility, independence, bladder/bowel control, sexual function, and overall well-being. The emotional and psychological challenges of coping with an SCI are also significant.

Disclaimer: This information is for general knowledge only and does not constitute medical advice. Following a car accident, consulting with a qualified medical professional is crucial for proper diagnosis and treatment of your specific spinal cord injury.

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