What harm can result from a spinal cord injury?

The various injuries that a person can suffer can be incredibly serious and complex. This is particularly true when systems that control functions like movement and sensory perception are involved. When a Washington resident suffers an injury to their spinal cord, their entire life can be severely affected by the limitations that it may impose.

The spinal cord is a group of nerves that is contained and protected in the spinal column. It transmits signals and carries messages from the brain throughout a person’s body. When the spinal cord is damaged, body parts that did not directly sustain any trauma can be impacted and may no longer function.

For example, if a victim suffers spinal cord damage near their cervical spine (near their neck) they may lose sensation, movement and other functions below that spot. They may not be able to move their arms and legs and their organ function may be impacted due to the failure of their brain to connect with their lower bodily systems.

The lower on the spinal cord that a victim suffers an injury, the fewer limitations they may experience. An injury to the middle of the spinal column may affect only those bodily systems below the victim’s waist, leaving them with functionality in their arms and torsos.

Victims of spinal cord injuries can suffer long-term health consequences and may require ongoing care to heal and recuperate. Not everyone who suffers a spinal cord injury will be able to return to full health and many who endure these injuries must learn to live with their limitations indefinitely.