What is central cord syndrome?

On behalf of Aiken and Aiken P.C. Personal Injury Attorneys posted in Motorcycle Accidents, on Wednesday, October 22, 2014

Massachusetts residents who have been diagnosed with central cord syndrome may know that it is a neurological condition where the spinal cord is damaged. The syndrome is characterized by a partial loss of functioning predominantly in the arms and hands. Depending on the location of the spinal cord damage, leg movement and bladder control may also be affected. Sometimes people experience an uncomfortable tingling or burning sensation in addition to the loss of motor functioning. Symptoms can vary significantly, depending on the amount of damage and the location of the injury. The nerves that descend from the cerebral cortex to the spinal cord can be injured in a variety of ways, but trauma is the most common cause for this type of injury. For instance, subluxation of the discs, which is a misalignment of the vertebrae that irritate or damage the spinal cord, may result after a car accident. Falls and sports-related injury are also frequent causes. There is no cure for central cord syndrome, but there are treatment options available. Sometimes partial functioning to the affected areas can be restored with rest and drug therapies. However, surgery to realign the discs may be required, particularly if the injury is more severe. Surgical procedures may not fully restore functioning, but some improvement may be gained. When someone is injured in an accident, they may wish to seek restitution from the person deemed at fault in order to cover medical expenses, loss of income and damages for pain and suffering. A civil claim might address these financial aspects, and it could be filed by the injured party or affected family members. Though the information herein is not intended as legal advice, consulting an attorney who is familiar with personal injury law may be a good way for accident victims to gain a full understanding of all the aspects involved in a civil case. Source: NINDS, “NINDS Central Cord Syndrome Information Page“, October 20, 2014