A spinal cord injury (SCI) can change a person’s life in an instant. It affects not only the body but also one’s ability to perform everyday tasks. The spinal cord is a vital part of the body’s nervous system, carrying messages between the brain and the rest of the body. When it gets injured, those messages are blocked or slowed down. 
In New Jersey, there are many cases of spinal cord injuries due to car accidents, falls, and sports injuries. Victims often face long hospital stays, therapy, and expensive medical bills. If you or someone you know has been hurt, speaking with an experienced spinal cord injury attorney in New Jersey can help you understand your legal rights and options. These professionals can guide you in getting compensation for your injuries, lost wages, and ongoing care.
Understanding Spinal Cord Injuries
A spinal cord injury occurs when the spinal cord is damaged due to trauma or disease. This damage may stop the brain from communicating with parts of the body, leading to a loss of movement or feeling. There are two main types of spinal cord injuries:
- Complete Injury: This type means that all feeling and movement are lost below the area of injury. The spinal cord is fully damaged at that point.
- Incomplete Injury: This means that some function still remains below the injury. A person may still have some feeling or movement, depending on how badly the spinal cord is hurt.
According to the American Association of Neurological Surgeons (AANS), there are about 17,000 new spinal cord injury cases each year in the U.S. Most of these injuries are caused by motor vehicle accidents, followed by falls and violent acts. The majority of patients are male and between the ages of 16 and 30.
The Levels of Spinal Cord Injuries
The location of the injury on the spinal cord affects what parts of the body are impacted. The spine is divided into different levels:
Cervical Injury (Neck Area)
This is the highest part of the spine. Injuries here are often the most serious. They can cause tetraplegia or quadriplegia, which means loss of movement in both arms and legs. It may also affect breathing and require the use of a ventilator.
Thoracic Injury (Upper Back)
Injuries in the thoracic region affect the chest and lower body. People with this type of injury usually still have use of their arms and hands but may lose control of the legs and chest muscles.
Lumbar Injury (Lower Back)
This level controls the hips and legs. An injury here can cause problems with walking and movement in the lower body. However, arm and hand movement is usually unaffected.
Sacral Injury (Pelvic Area)
This injury can affect the hips, thighs, and pelvic organs. Most people with a sacral injury can still walk, but they may have problems with bladder or bowel control.
Coccygeal Injury (Tailbone Area)
The coccyx is the lowest part of the spine. Injuries here are rare and usually less severe. They might cause pain and discomfort but usually do not lead to paralysis.
Conclusion
Spinal cord injuries vary greatly depending on the type and level of damage. Some people lose all movement below the injury, while others may recover some function. Understanding these degrees and levels helps people better manage the challenges they face after an injury.
If you or a loved one suffers a spinal cord injury in New Jersey, don’t hesitate to seek medical and legal help. An experienced spinal cord injury attorney in New Jersey can work with you to secure the support and compensation needed for your recovery journey.
Note: This is a collaborative post
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