The spinal cord is essentially a bundle of nerves that runs from the brain down through the spine to the lower lumbar area, just below your ribs. The cord forms part of the central nervous system that sends information around the body to and from the brain. There are 31 pairs of spinal nerves that connect the cord to the rest of the body. Depending on where they branch off from the main cord, they supply different parts of the body:
- The Cervical region supplies the back of your head, your neck, shoulders, arms, hands and diaphragm
- The Thoracic region supplies your chest and some parts of your abdomen
- The Lumbar region supplies your lower back alongside your thighs and legs
- Sacral region supplies your buttocks, most parts of your legs and feet, along with the anal and genital area.
When an injury to the spinal cord occurs, its effects depend on the severity of the injury, along with its location: as a rule of thumb, the higher up the spinal cord that the injury occurs, the more disruption to usual function the sufferer will endure.
Injuries to the Cervical nerves often lead to serious disability such as paralysis in arms, hands and legs (sometimes referred to Tetraplegia or Quadriplegia). Depending on the severity of the injury the patient may lose the ability to speak, control their bladder and bowel movements, and even lose the ability to cough if the diaphragm is affected. In most cases people who suffer an injury to the high cervical nerves will require 24-hour personal care.
Injuries to the Thoracic nerves can be devastating as well. Depending on the severity of the injury a patient may lose the use of their legs (sometimes referred to as Paraplegia) or may lose control of their bladder and bowel movements.
Injuries to the lower Lumbar and Sacral nerves can cause a loss of hip function and loss of bladder and bowel control, along with difficulties in walking.
Have you suffered from a spinal injury?
If you or someone you care for has suffered from an injury to your spine; wherever and however it occurred, you could be entitled to make a claim for compensation. Our solicitors have years of experience in handling cases of spinal injuries, and are sensitive to the needs of those who have suffered such injuries. We understand that it may not just be assistance with day to day living after an injury, but also the need to help with the emotional side of the potential loss. Contact us today to find out for free how we can help you get the compensation you need to begin rebuilding your life.