3 Painful Spinal Cord Injuries

Spinal cord injuries are caused by severe trauma to the body. Not only are injuries to the spine extremely painful, but can also be life altering. These injuries can occur from repetitious movement, wear and tear, heavy lifting, or a traumatic accident. Most spinal cord injuries happen from a workplace or vehicle accident. Once you first experience back pain you should see a medical doctor. The doctor will diagnose your spinal cord injury based on the damage that has been done to your body. Here are 3 painful spinal cord injuries.

Nerve Compression

Nerve compression, also known as a pinched nerve, can range from minor to severe. A patient can usually tell that they have a nerve compression injury when they have a painful tingling sensation down their arms or back. Other symptoms of a nerve compression injury include:

  • Radiating pain

  • Weakness in arms, legs, or neck

  • Constant numbness

This spinal injury can be treated by resting the area. If the injury was caused because of repetitious movement, the patient should avoid lifting or performing the movement that caused damage. Without resting the inflicted area, the patient could experience more pain and cause more damage.

Herniated Discs

Herniated discs are often confused with nerve compression injuries. Though the two injuries may feel similar at first, they do differ. Herniated discs occur along the spine, lower back, and neck area. This injury occurs when the cushion like pads between the vertebrae of the spine move out of position, pressing on the nerves. Symptoms of a herniated disc differ based on the region of your spine that is injured. Possible symptoms include:

  • Pain in legs, neck, arms, or chest

  • Burning

  • Tingling

  • Stiff neck or back

Once a patient sees a doctor they will be told to rest, prescribe anti-inflammatory medication, and possibly physical therapy. This injury can be extremely painful if left untreated.

Partial or Total Paralysis

Paralysis injuries are very severe and life altering. Partial paralysis occurs in the legs, feet, and below the waist. The pain can be mild or severe based on the injury. A patient who was in a car accident may experience partial paralysis where they have little movement of the legs or feet. Total paralysis is similar but more severe. Symptoms of total paralysis include:

  • Loss of bladder or bowel control

  • Inability to walk or move lower body

  • Difficulty breathing

  • Difficulty swallowing 

This injury will be identified early on by the patient since they will lose their ability to move. Treatment for paralysis can include physical therapy and medications to help regain function. Though this treatment can help, it does not guarantee a patient will be able to move normally.

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