What Causes a Spinal Cord Injury?

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), approximately 11,000 people sustain spinal cord injuries each year. The most common causes of spinal cord injuries are:

Trauma

Most spinal cord injuries occur when the spine suffers sudden, blunt trauma. This can result from an accident, act of violence, or sporting activity.

Motor Accidents

Almost half of new spinal cord injuries each year result from a car or motorcycle accident. Driving under the influence, not wearing a seat belt, or speeding can contribute to these accidents.

Violent Acts

Violent acts, such as a shooting or stabbing, can cause severe trauma to the spine. In some cases, the gun shot or stab wound can cut the spinal cord.

Falls

Falls account for many spinal cord injuries in people over the age of 65. This includes slipping in the bathtub or shower, tripping down a flight of stairs, or falling while reaching for an object in a high place. Unsafe conditions, like wet floors or tripping hazards, can contribute to an unintentional fall and cause the property’s owner to be held liable for the injury.

Sports and Recreational Activities

High impact sports – like football, rugby and wrestling – can cause spinal cord injuries. Gymnastics, cheerleading, and, most recently, snowboarding have also been shown to cause spinal injuries. Diving can be dangerous if the depth of the water is unknown.

Tumors

Tumors can contribute to spinal injury. The tumor may press the vertebrae into the surrounding tissue, causing pain or paralysis.

Disease or Disorder

Other causes of spinal cord injuries include disease, infection, or inflammation around the spinal tissue, multiple sclerosis, and cancer. Common diseases are polio, spina bifida, transverse myelitis, and multiple sclerosis.

Consult a Personal Injury Attorney

For more information about lawsuits regarding spinal cord injuries, contact a personal injury lawyer in your area today. If you or a loved one has suffered a spinal cord injury because of another party’s negligent actions, you may be entitled to compensation for medical bills. Browse LawyerShop’s directory of personal injury lawyers to find an experienced lawyer near you.