A spinal cord injury is among the most serious injuries anyone can sustain. Most spinal cord injuries cause permanent disability and loss of movement (paralysis) and loss of feeling.  Paralysis involving the majority of the body, including legs and arms, is referred to as quadriplegia or tetraplegia. When a spinal cord injury is limited to the lower body, this is referred to paraplegia.

According to the Mayo Clinic, the higher the injury on the spinal cord the more likely paralysis will result. Any spinal cord injury to the neck brings increased risk of paralysis in both arms and legs in addition to respiratory failure. Spinal cord injuries of any kind can result in the following:

• loss of movement
• loss of bowel or bladder control
• pain or intense sensations of stinging caused by damage to nerve fibers
• problems breathing and coughing

The most common causes of spinal cord injury include:

• motor vehicle accidents, which comprise about 50% of new spinal cord injuries every year
• acts of violence
• falls, which comprise roughly a quarter of new spinal cord injuries
• sports and recreation
• disease, such as cancer and arthritis

If you have suffered a spinal cord injury, Ryan R. Cox and Associates has the knowledge, experience, and resources to help you during this difficult time. If you need legal advice, please call Mr. Cox directly at 636-946-6886 or contact us on-line for a free consultation.