Brain damage and spinal cord injuries can lead to a permanent condition called paralysis that significantly changes a person’s life. “Paralysis” is an umbrella term for the loss of sensation and mobility arising from an incident or condition. However, different types of paralysis, like paraplegia and quadriplegia, can impact a person in various ways.
So what’s the difference between a quadriplegic and paraplegic injury? Here’s a closer look at the unique differences between these two conditions.
Medical Definitions of Paraplegia vs. Quadriplegia
Paralysis is the loss of feeling and muscle movement. It is most associated with spinal cord injuries, which involve extensive damage or the severing of the bundle of nerves that extends from the base of the brain down the spine. The spinal cord acts as a superhighway, connecting the brain to the rest of the body and transmitting messages back and forth. Strokes and severe traumatic brain injuries can also impact muscle movement and sensation.
While there are several distinct forms of paralysis, the two most common are paraplegia and quadriplegia:
- Paraplegia is a form of paralysis that affects the lower extremities, typically both legs and sometimes the lower abdomen.
- Quadriplegia, also called tetraplegia, involves losing movement and sensation in all four limbs and the torso.
Common Causes of Paraplegia and Quadriplegia in North Carolina
Paraplegia and quadriplegia are conditions caused by significant physical trauma to the body, particularly the brain, neck, or spine. Some of the most common causes of these paralytic conditions in North Carolina include:
- Car crashes
- Truck accidents
- Motorcycle wrecks
- Pedestrian accidents
- Bicycle accidents
- Boating accidents
- Workplace incidents
- Falls
- Assault and gunshot wounds
- Sports injuries
- Swimming pool accidents
- Medical malpractice
These violent and traumatic incidents can cause extensive damage to the brain and spinal cord, resulting in permanent disabilities and lifelong quality-of-life issues.
Key Differences in Physical Effects and Limitations
While paraplegia and quadriplegia are both paralytic conditions, there are substantial differences in the physical effects and limitations these conditions present to an injury victim.
Paraplegia
Paraplegia only affects the lower limbs, lower torso, and pelvic organs, meaning an individual loses movement and sensation in the legs. Most people with paraplegia can continue to live an active lifestyle with the help of their arms and an assistive device like a manual or electric wheelchair.
Those with paraplegia can still make facial movements, speak, and regulate their body temperature. They typically have few respiratory issues or other complications. However, since the pelvic organs are involved, most lose bowel and bladder control and experience sexual dysfunction.
Quadriplegia
Unlike paraplegia, those with quadriplegia lose movement and sensation in both arms and legs and most of the torso, depending on the location of the damage. Spinal cord injuries in the topmost cervical spine can cause paralysis of all four limbs and the muscles that control breathing. Individuals may also experience sexual issues, loss of bowel and bladder control, and problems regulating their body temperature or other basic bodily functions.
Some people with quadriplegia need a ventilator to breathe and do not benefit from assistive devices like individuals with paraplegia. Damage to some regions of the spinal cord can also affect the vocal cords, making it challenging for them to communicate.
Legal Considerations for Spinal Cord Injury Cases in North Carolina
Paraplegia and quadriplegia are life-altering medical conditions. These forms of paralysis can cause significant physical disability and impairments, lead to mental health issues like depression, and impact relationships and quality of life. Paralysis often prevents an injury victim from returning to work, as well. What is the price tag for a person’s health and happiness?
When an injury victim is paralyzed because of someone else’s negligence, they deserve to hold that person accountable. They may pursue fair compensation from the at-fault party for their:
- Medical expenses
- Rehabilitation costs
- Long-term care
- Assistive devices
- Home and vehicle modifications
- Lost wages
- Reduced earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Lost quality of life
Cases involving devastating harm like spinal cord injuries and paralysis are often more complex than other types of cases because of the severity of the injury and the high cost of medical care. Depending on the victim’s age and level of paralysis, they can expect to spend millions over their lifetime to manage their condition. Speedy settlement offers generally do not account for the long-term impact of a significant spinal cord injury, which is why it is often necessary to seek legal help to pursue maximum compensation.
A personal injury attorney understands the considerable implications of a spinal cord injury and can advocate for an accident victim and protect their rights. From collecting valuable evidence and building a solid case to negotiating for full compensation and preparing for trial when necessary, an attorney works to prevent a spinal cord injury victim from settling for anything less than what they deserve.
Contact Hardison & Cochran for Help with Your Spinal Cord Injury Case
The spinal cord injury lawyers at Hardison & Cochran have over 40 years of legal experience that we leverage to fight for North Carolina accident victims. We have a proven track record in recovering substantial compensation for many paralysis victims, including:
- $6.75 million for a delivery driver who was paralyzed when his load fell on him
- $3.5 million for a North Carolina worker who was paralyzed from the waist down after trees fell on him while on the job
- $1.5 million for an injured worker who was diagnosed with paraplegia due to spinal injury after falling from a roof while on the job
You know that when you choose Hardison & Cochran to represent you, you select a highly skilled team that will fight for you. Our compassionate and dedicated service has also resulted in positive testimonials from numerous satisfied clients, such as this one:
“Hardison and Cochran provided exceptional, personalized service throughout my entire experience. From the very beginning, they demonstrated genuine care for both my recovery and overall well-being. What truly set them apart was their commitment to my case—they even took the time to visit me at home after my accident, which made a significant difference during my recovery. Their dedication and professionalism have earned my complete trust, and I will confidently rely on them for any future legal matters.” – Bri Finez
When a spinal cord injury changes your life, we are ready to offer you the support, respect, and legal advice you need. Contact our office today for a free consultation to learn more about how our team can help you pursue meaningful compensation for your injuries.
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