The spinal cord contains a network of nerves that carry messages between the brain and the rest of the body and extends from the buttock to the skull. It provides a conduit that allows for the connection of all the nerves to the brain. An injury anywhere along this path of the spinal cord can cause paralysis below the injury.
Symptoms of a spinal cord injury can include difficulty in walking, weakness, loss of bladder or bowel control and numbness, tingling, or paralysis of the extremities. A person that has experienced a spinal cord injury may also exhibit signs of shock or even unconsciousness.
Any violent blow to the head can cause a head injury. The impact can lead to trauma of the scalp, skull, or brain and can be either a closed or open head injury. A closed head injury occurs when a forceful blow strikes the head but it does not puncture or penetrate the skull. An open head injury occurs when the blow penetrates the skull and the brain tissue.
According to the U.S. National Library of Medicine (NLM) at the National Institute of Health (NIH), the two most common types of head injuries are concussion and contusion. A concussion can cause physical, cognitive, or emotional symptoms. A contusion is a bruise to the brain that can diminish mental function and can cause brain herniation. Brain injuries can reduce or affect brain function such as judgment, memory, speech, reflexes, balance, and coordination.
Some common types of head and spine injuries include:
Head and spine injuries can have disabling and lasting effects on the victim and the family. A person that has suffered a head and spine injury will need assistance for a long time and will have extensive and costly medical and rehabilitative expenses.
If your loved one has been the victim of a head and spine injury, you should contact a personal injury lawyer with experience in head and spine injuries as soon as possible.