Trauma from a car accident can put tremendous pressure on the spinal cord. This compression puts pressure on the nerves in the spinal cord. If you did not receive medical treatment at the scene or in the emergency room, see your doctor right away for an evaluation. Tell your doctor about any symptoms you are experiencing. Symptoms of spinal cord compression may include:
- Pain in your neck and back
- Burning sensations in your arms and legs
- Loss of sensation in your feet
- Trouble with hand-eye coordination
- Weakness in your foot that causes a limp
The effects of spinal cord compression from a car accident can be temporary or permanent. Symptoms may not always lead to crippling pain, but they can have a profound effect on victims’ health, ability to work, and personal life.
How Spinal Cord Compression Limits Every Aspect of Your Life
The physical effects of spinal cord compression can have a domino effect, reaching several areas of your life. The symptoms can make it difficult – or impossible – to work. These lost wages and reduced earning capacity, combined with the extensive medical bills can create a financial burden for the patient and his or her family.
The cost of a spinal cord injury can be extensive and long-lasting. Even minor spinal injuries can cost patients an average of $347,484 for just the first year alone, according to Christopher and Dana Reeve Foundation. This includes the cost of surgery, extended hospital stays, imaging scans, physical therapy, rehabilitation, and more. Victims of spinal cord injuries – from minor to severe – may also experience depression, anxiety, and other psychological effects.
Treating Spinal Cord Compression
As you seek treatment for spinal cord compression, you may see a variety of specialists. This includes:
- Back or neck surgeons
- Orthopedic surgeons
- Neurologists
- Physical therapists
Treatment for your symptoms could include surgery, spinal injections, or physical therapy, depending on the severity of your injury.
How to Get Your Life Back on Track After A Spinal Cord Compression
Even with insurance, the costs associated with treating spinal cord compression and other spinal injuries can be steep. Between medical bills and physical therapy costs, not the mention the cost to repair your vehicle and your lost wages, victims have a lot of financial damages for which they can seek compensation. Accident victims may also be entitled to compensation for their pain and suffering.
If you were in a car accident, call 877-538-1116 to set up a free consultation with Columbus auto accident attorney David Bressman. We will review your case and advise you regarding your legal options to prove the other driver caused the accident and recover compensation after your accident.