What are the Different Types of Paralysis?

Car accidents are a common yet unfortunate reality of driving. And if you’ve sustained injuries in an accident due to another party’s negligence, it can be one of the worst times of your life. Furthermore, if you’ve sustained paralysis injuries, your life may never return to normal.

In these cases, it’s important to speak with an injury attorney to secure justice and your fair compensation. It’s also vital to know the ins and outs of paralysis and related paralysis injuries.

What is Paralysis?

Paralysis is a severe type of personal injury. It occurs when something interrupts the messages that pass between the brain and the muscles in the body, often in the form of a spinal cord injury. Many different accidents can cause paralysis, from diving into shallow water to diseases. No known cure exists for paralysis. Patients with this condition generally have to adapt to life with permanent disabilities.

Remember that the statute of limitations in Arizona is two years. That means you must file your personal injury claim within two years after you’ve suffered damages from an accident. If you have questions about filing or the best time to bring your case, discuss the details of your case with an attorney.

Paralysis After Car Accidents

Paralysis after a car accident can cause a loss of function and/or feeling in the muscles. Motor and sensory damage to the muscles can occur due to nervous system problems. Paralysis may be complete or incomplete. Complete paralysis is the total loss of feeling and function, while incomplete paralysis means only partial loss. Paralysis may affect the whole body, only the lower limbs or three out of four limbs. It can occur on just one side of the body or both sides. Cases vary depending on the extent of damage to the nervous system.

What Causes Paralysis?

Paralysis can stem from external or internal trauma that impacts the nervous system. External trauma, such as a blow to the spinal cord in an accident, could sever the spine or damage its surrounding nerves and ligaments. The spinal cord may never recover, resulting in permanent paralysis. Paralysis could also arise due to internal issues, such as tumors, infections, and neurological problems.

Any fracture, dislocation, compression, swelling, bleeding, or inflammation on or near the spinal cord could cause paralysis. The spinal cord is a delicate part of the body that plays a vital role in movement, function, and feeling. Any type of damage to the spine could cause paralysis. Traumatic or nontraumatic damage to nerve fibers can permanently impair all or part of the muscles below the point of injury.

How to Treat Paralysis Injuries

Patients with minor spinal cord injuries or paralysis from something such as a brain injury may be able to overcome paralysis with treatments. However, patients with paralysis due to a severed spine or permanently damaged nerves may never overcome their disabilities. Potential treatments for paralysis include surgeries, physical therapy, massage therapy, and occupational therapy.

Personal Injury Attorney in Arizona

Regardless of the type of accident or injuries you’ve suffered, you should discuss the facts of their case with an experienced attorney. Whether you’ve sustained paralysis injuries or another type of injury, you can secure your fair compensation. And to ensure the best settlement possible, you should speak with an injury attorney in Phoenix right away.

Our personal injury attorneys at ELG have years of experience when it comes to fighting for victims and their families. If you’ve sustained injuries in an accident, reach out to our personal injury lawyers at (623) 877-3600 for a free consultation and legal representation today.