Neck strain and spinal cord injury can devastate

Neck strain or “whiplash” as it is sometimes known, is a common injury in rear-end collision car accidents. The exact forces working on the neck to cause injury are largely unknown. Originally, it was thought to be an over-extension of the neck muscles, ligaments, and bones in the neck, but very low impact accidents (2-5 mph) can cause mild neck strain symptoms even though the neck stayed within the normal motion range throughout the accident. Obviously, there are other forces at work to cause neck strain.

A small number of neck strain injuries also affect the spinal cord, resulting in spinal cord injury. This can be much more serious. Strained ligaments and muscles usually heal in 10 weeks or less, depending on the severity of the injury and force of the impact. Dizziness, headaches, and other neck strain symptoms also usually fade over time, though this can take years in some cases. But a spinal cord injury can lead to long-term or even permanent injury that can affect motor skills, sensation, and even breathing if not treated correctly.

In most cases, spinal cord injury as a result of neck strain comes from compression due to a herniated disc or bone spur. Often associated swelling also compresses the spinal cord, which results in two direct causes of spinal cord injury. Symptoms include arm pain, and less frequently neck pain (note: neck pain may be present due to other reasons such as strained muscles, but will not necessarily be directly because of spinal cord injury).

Compression can lead to trapped nerves, and either immediate or eventual nerve damage. Although rarely fatal, this type of injury can result in chronic pain, especially in the arms, that will not go away with normal neck strain treatment. However treatment of herniated disc or bone spur usually fixes the problem unless permanent damage is done to nerves of the spinal cord.

If you have neck strain, spinal cord injury or any other type of injury that was the result of someone else’s negligence, contact Jim S. Adler & Associates to find out what your rights are. Spinal cord injuries are usually related to car accidents, but can also occur during a fall or as a result of violence. Recovery is usually long and expensive, but with the help of Jim S. Adler & Associates, you can secure compensation to cover medical bills and lost time from work as well as the needless mental anguish you may be suffering.

Contact a Jim S. Adler & Associates personal injury lawyerright now for a free case review by calling directly or by clicking on the link on this page. We will ensure your rights are protected, and we will help you receive the best settlement possible.

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