A spinal cord injury is a serious medical condition that can have life-altering consequences. When the spinal cord is damaged, it can disrupt communication between the brain and the body, leading to partial or complete loss of function below the injury.
At 1-800-HURT911®, we understand the challenges faced by accident victims who suffer from spinal cord injuries. Our experienced Denver car accident doctors, chiropractors, and physical therapists help patients with spinal injuries regain as much mobility as possible while relieving pain. Accident victims never pay out-of-pocket for treatment, and we even provide free transportation to and from appointments.
Contact us today for a free consultation.
Spinal Cord Injury Symptoms
Spinal cord injury symptoms can vary widely depending on the severity and location of the damage. The most common symptoms include loss of movement, altered sensation, and difficulty controlling bladder and bowel functions. Many patients also experience muscle spasms, exaggerated reflexes, or even paralysis in severe cases.
Other symptoms may include difficulty breathing, pain, or an intense burning sensation resulting from nerve damage. Some individuals may lose the ability to regulate their body temperature, blood pressure, or heart rate.
If you or someone you love has been in an accident and is experiencing any of these symptoms, immediate medical attention is critical. Call 911 right away for help.
Common Causes of Spinal Cord Injuries
A spinal cord injury can result from various traumatic incidents, but some of the most common causes include car accidents, truck accidents, motorcycle accidents, and falls. These events can apply significant force to the spinal column, leading to fractures, dislocations, or compression of the spinal cord.
Car Accidents
Motor vehicle accidents are among the leading causes of spinal cord injuries. A sudden impact from a collision can violently shift the body, causing the spine to bend or twist unnaturally. Whether it’s a rear-end accident, side impact, or a head-on collision, the force of a crash can lead to severe spinal trauma.
Even minor accidents can result in whiplash or herniated discs, which, if left untreated, can contribute to long-term spinal issues. Victims of car accidents should seek immediate medical evaluation, even if they do not initially feel symptoms, as spinal injuries can sometimes take hours or days to manifest.
Truck Accidents
Truck accidents pose an even greater risk due to the sheer size and weight of commercial vehicles. The force of impact from an 18-wheeler can be catastrophic, leading to spinal fractures, disc herniation, and even permanent nerve damage. The high impact of truck crashes often results in more severe spinal cord injuries, requiring extensive medical care and rehabilitation.
Motorcycle Accidents
Motorcycle riders are particularly vulnerable to spinal cord injuries because they lack the protection that cars and trucks provide. When a rider is thrown from their motorcycle in an accident, they are at high risk for severe spinal trauma. Even when riders wear protective gear such as helmets and padded clothing, motorcycle crashes can cause fractures, spinal misalignment, or permanent nerve damage.
Falls
Falls are another major cause of spinal cord injuries, especially among older adults and workers in hazardous environments. Whether it’s a slip-and-fall accident at a business, a workplace injury, or a fall from a height, the impact can be devastating to the spine. Falls can lead to vertebral fractures, spinal compression, and nerve damage.
Diagnosing a Spinal Injury
Early and accurate diagnosis is crucial for spinal cord injuries to determine the extent of damage and guide appropriate treatment. Our team performs a thorough physical examination and neurological assessment to evaluate a patient’s motor function, sensory response, and reflex activity after a back injury. Doctors use diagnostic imaging tests such as X-rays, CT scans, and MRIs to detect fractures, disc herniation, and soft tissue damage.
In some cases, specialized tests like electromyography (EMG) may be conducted to assess nerve function and determine the severity of the injury. The sooner a spinal cord injury is diagnosed, the more effective the treatment plan will be in promoting recovery and preventing further complications.
Spinal Cord Injury Treatment
The treatment of spinal cord injuries depends on the severity and location of the damage. While some injuries may require surgery, others can be managed through a combination of medical interventions, physical therapy, and chiropractic care.
Emergency Medical Care
Immediately after an accident, emergency medical responders work to stabilize the patient, prevent further spinal damage, and reduce inflammation. Corticosteroids may be administered to minimize swelling and pressure on the spinal cord. Immobilization devices such as cervical collars and spine boards prevent movement and protect the spine during transport to the hospital.
Chiropractic Care and Physical Therapy
At 1-800-HURT911®, we provide expert chiropractic care and physical therapy to reduce pain and help patients regain as much mobility as possible. Chiropractic adjustments can help realign the spine, alleviate nerve compression, and promote healing.
Physical therapy focuses on strengthening muscles, improving flexibility, and retraining the body to restore function. Our team customizes treatment plans to meet each patient’s needs.
Pain Management and Rehabilitation
Many spinal cord injury patients experience chronic pain due to nerve damage or musculoskeletal strain. We use non-invasive pain management techniques like massage therapy, acupuncture, and electrical stimulation to help reduce discomfort. Rehabilitation programs are tailored to improve balance, coordination, and strength.
Surgery
In severe cases, surgery may be necessary to stabilize the spine and prevent further deterioration. Procedures such as spinal fusion, decompression surgery, or laminectomy may be performed to relieve pressure on the spinal cord and restore structural integrity. We can refer patients to skilled spinal surgeons.
Why Choose 1-800-HURT911®?
Choosing the right medical provider is essential for a smooth and effective recovery. 1-800-HURT911® is the top choice for accident victims in the Denver metro area.
Experienced Team and Personalized Care
Our experienced doctors, chiropractors, and physical therapists specialize in treating accident injuries. We offer personalized treatment plans tailored to each patient.
Free Transportation and Convenient Locations
At 1-800-HURT911®, we strive to make medical care accessible and stress-free. We provide free transportation to and from our clinics located in:
No Out-of-Pocket Costs for Accident Victims
If you have been hurt in an accident, you don’t have to worry about medical costs at HURT911®. Our doctors work on a lien basis, meaning we only get paid once your personal injury case is settled. You won’t be hassled for payment during your legal case, and health insurance is not required!
Legal Help
We work with the best personal injury lawyers in Colorado. Our doctors will document your injuries to support your case.
Contact Us Today for a Free Consultation
Suffering a spinal cord injury can be overwhelming, but you don’t have to navigate recovery alone. At 1-800-HURT911®, we provide compassionate care to accident victims in the Denver metro area.
Our team of experienced doctors, chiropractors, and physical therapists is dedicated to helping patients regain their health and mobility. Accident victims pay nothing out-of-pocket for treatment, and we offer free transportation to and from appointments, making quality care accessible to everyone in need.
If you or a loved one has suffered a spinal cord injury in an accident, don’t wait to seek help. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation and begin your journey toward recovery.