| Paralysis Accident Claims Paralysis describes the loss of muscle function, which leads to loss of feeling in the affected area. Paralysis can be complete, partial and affect either one or both sides of the body. The cause of paralysis is nerve damage. This nerve damage can either be in the brain or spinal cord (the central nervous system) or in the nerves outside of the spinal cord (peripheral nervous system). There are 24 vertebrae/small bones in the spinal cord. These are grouped into three sections: • Neck (cervical spine)
• Middle Back (thoracic)
• Lower Back (Lumbar spine) There is also a lot of tissue that surrounds the bones, muscles and skin, all of which support the spine. The two most common forms of paralysis are Paraplegia; paralysis of the lower half of the body, including legs and Quadriplegia; paralysis of the arms and legs. The way in which these are diagnosed is by looking at the events in the patient’s history, such as incidents like falls or trauma, exposure to toxins, infections and surgery. Neurological examinations can then test strength, reflexes and sensation in the affected area as well as looking at reflexes and strength in normal areas. The only treatment that is possible for paralysis is to try and treat underlying causes. This can be done through: • Physical Therapy – this focuses on mobility. It helps to develop strategies to compensate for paralysis by using muscles that still have normal function. This helps maintain and build strength.
• Occupational Therapy – focuses on daily activities such as eating/bathing. Develops tools/techniques that permit self care. An occupational therapist suggests ways to modify your home/workplace so you can lead a normal life.
• Other requirements may be; respiratory therapist, vocational rehabilitation counsellor, social worker, speech language pathologist, nutritionist, special education teacher, recreation therapist or clinical psychologist. Accidents such as sports (especially horse riding), road traffic, severe trauma to the back or a broken neck can all leave you susceptible to paralysis. If you are unfortunate enough to be left with paralysis after an accident you could be entitled to compensation. Accident Consult are experts in no win no fee claims, meaning if you have had an accident in the last three years that has left you with paralysis you could be entitled to compensation. Get in touch with one of our expert advisors today for your free consultation and visit our Claim Calculator to find out how much compensation you could be entitled to. |
