Motor accidents often lead to emotional, financial and physical harm to the victim. Physical harm may include spinal cord injuries. Spinal cord injuries can occur anywhere from the neck to the lower back and are categorized as either motor or sensory injuries, depending on what type of motor function is affected.
Motor spinal cord injuries
When motor function is affected, motor spinal cord injuries can range from complete paralysis to partial motor control. This means that the motor skills needed to move and control a person’s body are impaired or completely absent. One of the most common motor spinal cord injuries is paraplegia, which is the loss of movement and feeling in the legs as well as possibly the lower trunk and pelvic area.
Sensory spinal cord injuries
Sensory spinal cord injuries result in the loss of feeling or sensation. Loss of sensation can cause a person to be unable to feel temperature, pain, pressure or vibration in the affected area. Other sensory impacts include numbness, tingling, burning or prickly sensations that can range from mild to severe.
How do car accidents lead to spinal cord injuries?
Motor vehicle accidents can lead to severe spinal cord injuries due to the tremendous force of impact that can occur. Because the spine is a delicate structure, it is not able to withstand high-velocity impacts and sudden changes in direction that result from motor vehicle collisions. This results in a disruption of the spine’s normal functioning, which can cause a variety of motor and sensory issues. When motor vehicle accidents cause spinal cord injuries, victims often require extensive medical care and rehabilitation.
It is important to practice safe driving habits and be aware of the potential dangers motor vehicle accidents can pose. Wearing a seat belt and avoiding distracted or impaired driving are both important steps in preventing motor vehicle-related spinal cord injuries. Additionally, regular visits with your healthcare provider will help you stay informed about any changes in your motor and sensory abilities, allowing you to better manage any potential spinal cord injury.