There are many different types of injury that people can suffer, but those that affect the spine are often the most devastating. As well as resulting in local damage to this part of the body, these injuries can also affect individuals much more broadly.
If you’ve sustained physical harm like this, you might be struggling to come to terms with your pain and suffering. Meanwhile, if you believe that your injuries were the result of the negligence of a third party, it could be even more difficult to accept. This is why it can pay off to make a personal injury claim.
Different types of injury
Spinal injuries fall into different categories depending on their precise nature and you might sometimes hear terminology that confuses you. For example, you may come across many references to the level of injury.
This essentially details where along the spine the damage was done and how badly the related nerves and muscles have been affected. The spinal cord is measured using a number and a lettering system that is based on the vertebrae. These are the ridges of bone that help to support the spine and neck.
Facts and figures
The spine is made up of 24 vertebrae, seven of which are in the neck. These are measured from C1 to C7. Then there are 12 thoracic vertebrae in the chest area, which run from T1 to T12. Meanwhile, the five lumber vertebrae in the lower back are measured from L1 to L5.
People with spinal cord injuries between the C1 and C7 level are likely to have paralysis in all four limbs. The extent of this will depend on how high up the damage was done. Those who suffer T1 to T12 spinal cord injuries will have fully functional muscles in their top half, but little or no function in their lower limbs. In contrast, individuals who have sustained spinal cord injuries between L1 and L5 could have some limited movement in their hips, knees and feet, but it is likely they will need some type of mobility aid.
Making those responsible pay
If you fall into any of these categories, or indeed have suffered other kinds of back injury, and you want to make a spinal injury claim, you’ve come to the right place. Here at PHC Law we’re experts when it comes to legal action like this and may be perfectly placed to help.
The amount of money you can expect to receive if you’re successful in your case depends on the type of injury you’ve suffered. It ranges from up to £5,150 for strains and sprains with a good recovery within two years to up to £111,000 for severe back injuries.
Find out more
If you’re keen to find out more about how we operate and to see whether or not we’re the right firm to help you take forward your claim for spinal injury compensation, simply peruse the rest of our website or get in touch. While accessing a payout cannot undo the harm you’ve suffered, it can help you to feel a sense of justice and it may also provide you with a welcome financial boost.