Each year, over 17,500 Americans suffer spinal cord injuries with statistics showing that as many as 38 percent of these injuries occur in traffic accidents. In Fresno and the surrounding area, these injuries pose a particular challenge due to the high volume of freight traffic on Highway 99 and other major highways. As an experienced Fresno spinal cord injury lawyer we are faced with the complex reality that spinal cord injuries are not just physical trauma – they profoundly affect brain function in ways that often go unnoticed in the early stages of treatment.
Of particular concern is the fact that over 60% of patients were unaware of the potential impact of spinal cord injury on their cognitive functions until they faced challenges several months after the injury. Studies show that as many as 47 percent of spinal cord injury patients experience some form of cognitive change in the first year after the injury, while the percentage rises to an alarming 75 percent when emotional changes are included.
The Role of the Spinal Cord and the Brain in Body Function
The spinal cord and the brain together make up the central nervous system (CNS), which coordinates all bodily functions. The spinal cord transmits signals between the brain and the rest of the body. When the spinal cord is damaged, the brain loses access to certain parts of the body, which can cause loss of motor, sensory, and autonomic functions such as breathing and urinary control.
Spinal Cord Injury Statistics
Spinal cord injury (SCI) affects over 15 million people globally. In most cases, these injuries are the result of trauma such as falls, traffic accidents, or violence – incidents that are often preventable. Yet, the consequences of an injury can be long-lasting and serious. People with SCI face a high risk of secondary conditions that can be debilitating or even life-threatening, contributing to an increased mortality rate in this population.
Furthermore SCI has significant economic and social impact – affected individuals often have lower levels of education and participation in the workforce. For example according to the data, the incidence of SCI injuries varies from region to region, with an annual incidence of about 32 cases per million in Europe and 40 cases per million in the United States, where 12,000 new traumatic spinal cord injuries are reported annually.
Most Common Causes of Spinal Cord Injuries
- Traffic accidents which account for a significant percentage of SCI cases
- Falls from heights, often in the elderly population
- Violence, including physical attacks and injuries with firearms
The male-to-female ratio of spinal cord injuries is approximately 4:1, with a significantly higher prevalence among men. Also present are non-traumatic injuries to the spinal cord, caused by tumors, degenerative disorders, vascular problems, and infections.
Symptoms of Spinal Cord Injury
As an experienced Fresno spinal cord injury attorney team, we often encounter a wide range of symptoms that show how spinal cord injuries affect brain function. Understanding these symptoms is key to proper treatment and rehabilitation.
Cognitive symptoms
When the spinal cord is injured, vital communication between the brain and the body is disrupted. This disruption does not just affect physical functions – it can significantly alter the way the brain functions. Many sufferers experience:
- Problems with short-term memory
- Difficulty in making decisions
- Impaired ability to concentrate
- Slow processing of information
Emotional Changes
Our Fresno spinal cord injury lawyer team particularly emphasizes the importance of recognizing the emotional symptoms that occur in as many as 65% of patients. These changes include periods of intense anxiety, depression, and mood swings. Patients often describe feelings of emotional numbness or overreactivity to everyday situations.
Physical Symptoms
In addition to the obvious physical limitations, secondary symptoms also occur:
- Chronic pain that affects mental health
- Sleeping disorders
- Changes in body perception
- Problems with balance and coordination
Rehabilitation and the Long-Term Consequences
A modern approach to rehabilitation must take into account both the physical and the cognitive aspects of recovery. As your Fresno spinal cord injury lawyer, we advocate for a comprehensive rehabilitation plan that includes:
- Specialized cognitive therapy
- Psychological support and counseling
- Physical rehabilitation tailored to individual needs
- Long-term follow-up and support
Legal Aspects and Protecting Your Rights
Understanding the complexity of a spinal cord injury is key to achieving fair compensation. Our team of experts will make sure that your claim covers all aspects of the injury, including:
- Current and future medical expenses
- Rehabilitation and therapies
- Loss of earnings and work ability
- The cost of lifelong care
Do not let the complexity of your injury diminish your right to compensation. Contact Bojat Law Group for a free consultation with our Fresno spinal cord injury attorney team. We’re here to protect your rights and help you get the compensation you deserve.
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