Doctor pointing out spinal injuries on a model of a spine to a patient with back pain | Burg Simpson

What Are the Four Types of Spinal Injuries?

Personal Injury

November 11, 2024 | 4 min read

If you are calling a spine injury lawyer in Denver, you are in dire straits, and we want to help as much as we can. Spinal injuries can have life-changing consequences. The impact on your physical health is obvious and devastating. What you might not realize is the effect it will have on your financial stability, emotional well-being, and future opportunities.

No matter if your injury was caused by a car crash, workplace accident, or any other type of negligence, you must understand your legal options. During this time, you need to know you have the support you need to pursue the compensation you deserve.

At Burg Simpson, we are committed to fighting for victims. Our attorneys have a proven record of success and a reputation for dedicated advocacy. We will help you pursue the justice you deserve. Call us today at 303-792-5595 to schedule a FREE consultation with a spine injury lawyer in Denver.

The 4 Types of Spinal Injuries

Though any spinal injury can be shattering, they do vary in type and severity. They are typically classified into four main types:

Cervical Spinal Cord Injuries

These injuries occur in the neck area and often cause the most severe consequences. Cervical spinal injuries can lead to paralysis in both the arms and the legs (quadriplegia) and may also impair breathing. These require long-term, intensive medical care.

Thoracic Spinal Cord Injuries

Thoracic spinal injuries are located in the upper and mid-back. They can affect muscle control and sensation in the chest, abdominal area, and legs. They can also result in paraplegia or severe mobility restrictions, though these injuries are less common.

Lumbar Spinal Cord Injuries

Injuries to the lumbar spine affect the lower back. They can cause a loss of function in the hips and legs, which can sometimes lead to partial or complete paraplegia. A lumbar spine injury will often require assistive devices like wheelchairs.

Sacral Spinal Cord Injuries

Sacral injuries occur at the base of the spine and can affect the pelvic region, bladder, bowel, and sexual functions. Full paralysis is less common with these injuries. Still, sacral injuries can have long-term health impacts and affect quality of life.

The most common spinal injuries involve the lumbar spine. They are often caused by lifting accidents, falls, or car crashes. However, the injuries with the worst prognosis tend to be cervical spine injuries, especially in the upper cervical area. These can lead to complete paralysis and life-threatening complications.

What Are the Key Signs & Symptoms of a Spinal Injury?

Recognizing the signs and symptoms of a spinal cord injury early on can make a significant difference in your prognosis and avoid further damage. The main symptoms that may indicate a spine injury include:

Severe pain or pressure in the neck, head, or back
Loss of sensation, numbness, or tingling in the hands, fingers, feet, or toes
Weakness or lack of coordination in any part of the body
Difficulty maintaining balance or walking
Loss of bladder or bowel control
Difficulty breathing after the injury
Visible misalignment or twisting of the neck or back

If you or a loved one exhibits any of these symptoms after an accident, seek medical attention immediately.

How Much Will It Cost To Live With a Spinal Cord Injury?

The toll that a spinal injury takes on our bodies, our minds, and our families is terrible. Then, there is the cost of living with a spinal cord injury—and that can be astronomical. Expenses often include:

Ongoing medical care
Rehabilitation and therapy
Medication
Assistive devices (wheelchairs, braces, etc.)
Special vehicles
Home modifications
Loss of income
Reduced earning capacity
And more

The lifetime costs can range from hundreds of thousands of dollars to millions, depending on the severity of the injury. Consult a spine injury lawyer in Denver who can help you seek the compensation you need to cover these extensive costs and bring financial stability to your future.

Who Is Liable for Your Spinal Injury?

The negligent party liable for your spinal cord injury will vary depending on the cause and circumstances of your injury. At Burg Simpson, we have advocated for victims injured in many different kinds of contexts, including:

Depending on the details of the accident, possible liable parties could include:

Negligent drivers
Employers
Sub-contractors
Manufacturers
Property owners
Healthcare providers

Each case is different, with its own complications and circumstances. Having a Denver spine injury lawyer with national resources and local clout on your side will be invaluable. You will need a partner in this fight for the fair compensation you deserve for your devastating injuries.

When To Contact a Spine Injury Lawyer in Denver

If you have suffered a spine injury due to someone else’s negligence, it is time to contact an attorney. In fact, as soon as you or a loved one can, we recommend scheduling a consultation to see if you have a viable claim for compensation.

Spinal injuries are life-altering, no matter how severe. You may need long-term medical care and find yourself unable to work. A lawyer can help you seek the recovery you need.

Your spine injury attorney can assist in collecting evidence, navigating the legal system, negotiating with insurance companies, and fighting for the compensation you deserve. After everything you have been through, an ally in the fight for justice will be invaluable.

Contact Burg Simpson’s Denver Spine Injury Attorneys Today

At Burg Simpson, we understand how impactful and overwhelming a spinal injury can be for you and your loved ones. Our experienced and dedicated attorneys are ready to advocate for you when you need us most.

Contact us today to schedule a FREE case evaluation with a spine injury lawyer in Denver. Let us help you take the first step toward justice and recovery. We are proud to help clients throughout Colorado.