Breaking your back can be one of the most painful injuries you can endure. The spinal cord is a bundle of nerves that connect your brain to the rest of your body. Damage to this bundle can be devastating and cause loss of function in many parts of your body.
The first few days after your injury are vital to your recovery. The steps you take early on can affect your long-term outcomes and quality of life. If you or someone you know suffers a spinal cord injury, it’s important to contact a spinal injury lawyer like our friends at Hickey & Turim, SC.
What Is A Spinal Cord Injury?
Spinal cord injuries are often caused by accidents, such as car accidents, slip and fall accidents, workplace accidents, and sports or other recreational injuries. Mechanical forces involved in these types of accidents can cause damage to the spinal cord or surrounding structures — such as ligaments, discs, or vertebrae.
When the spinal cord is injured, it triggers an inflammatory reaction throughout the body. This reaction is responsible for a cascade of events that ultimately leads to the death of nerve cells. The extent and duration of this inflammatory reaction determine how much damage will occur, and thus how much function will be lost. Therefore, identifying and treating the underlying cause of the inflammation is critical for limiting damage and preserving function.
Emergency Medical Treatment
It is essential that a person suffering from a spinal cord injury receive immediate emergency medical treatment. This can include stabilizing the spine, as well as transporting the patient to the hospital. A spinal injury lawyer to help you get the medical treatment you need.
Maintain Body Temperature
It is important for patients to maintain their body temperature during this time. To do so, it may be necessary to place a blanket over the body before moving it. Maintaining body temperature will help to reduce swelling of the spinal cord and minimize damage.
Monitor Blood Pressure and Heart Rate
During this time, it is also essential that the blood pressure and heart rate are closely monitored by medical professionals. If there are any changes in these areas, immediate action may be necessary to prevent complications from arising.
Once at the Hospital
After arriving at the hospital, it is likely that further testing will be performed on the patient’s spine. These tests may include x-rays, CT scans, and MRIs. These tests are vital in determining what type of treatment will be necessary for recovery.
Contact Your Spinal Cord Injury Lawyer
A serious spinal cord injury requires immediate medical attention. But once you’ve been stabilized and taken care of at the hospital, it’s time to think about how you’ll pay for your care and support yourself in the future. You’ll need to talk with a spinal injury lawyer who specializes in these types of injuries.
Your lawyer will try to get as much information from you as possible so they can begin building your case. They can also help you find other legal professionals who will help you with other aspects of your claim.