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Outcomes for Spinal Cord Injuries

Michael Agruss

Written and Reviewed by Michael Agruss

  • Managing Partner and Personal Injury Lawyer at Mike Agruss Law.
  • Over 20 years of experience in Personal Injury.
  • Over 8000+ consumer rights cases settled.
  • Graduated from the University of Illinois Chicago School of Law: Juris Doctor, 2004.

Spinal cord injuries (SCIs) are common in serious auto accidents and can result in long-term or permanent debilitations which require lifelong medical care and also result in lost wages and quality of life. If you or a loved one has suffered a spinal cord injury in an auto accident, speak with an experienced personal injury attorney as soon as possible to ensure that your rights are protected.

Here are some functional outcomes of severe spinal cord injuries:

  • C1 – C4 quadriplegia – These involve paralysis of upper and lower extremities, which may also include low endurance, inability to cough, and respiratory compromise due to paralyzed muscles. These patients are heavily dependent on caregivers and some require mechanical ventilation.
  • C5 quadriplegia – This is the highest form of SCI which still allows patients to drive vehicles with special adaptations, as it involves paralysis of the trunk and lower extremities and some upper extremities. Self-feeding and grooming are possible, though patients generally lack the upper body strength for independent transfers.
  • C6 quadriplegia – This involves paralysis in the trunk and lower extremities and some lost function in the upper extremities. While patients may have respiratory dysfunction due to paralyzed intercostal muscles, independence in feeding, grooming and other upper-body function is possible.
  • C7 – C8 quadriplegia – These also involve paralysis in the trunk and lower extremities, but with limited grasp and dexterity. Although the respiratory system is impaired, independence in eating, grooming, and manual wheelchair use are usually possible.
  • T1 – T9 paraplegia – These involve paralysis in the lower trunk and lower extremities, while strength in the upper extremities is preserved, and bowel/bladder function can also be maintained independently.
  • T10 – L1 paraplegia – These involve paralysis in the lower extremities, but patients also have full respiratory function and potential for improved ambulation (physical movement).
  • L2 – S5 paraplegia – These involve partial paralysis in the lower extremities. Bowel/bladder function can be maintained independently and four-point devices can be used for movement.

If you or a loved one has suffered a spinal cord injury in an accident, contact 844 See Mike, LLC for a free consultation. We are a Chicago-based injury law firm representing individuals (and their families) who have suffered an injury in an accident. We will handle your case quickly and advise you every step of the way, and we will not hesitate to go to trial for you.

Lastly, 844 See Mike is not paid attorneys’ fees unless we win your case. Our no-fee promise is that simple. You have nothing to risk when you hire us – only the opportunity to seek justice.

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