The location at which a spinal injury happens has a direct impact on what type of function may be lost after a traumatic accident.

The human spinal column can be separated into four distinct segments from top to bottom: cervical, thoracic, lumbar and sacral. Spinal cord injury symptoms are different at every level.

Cervical

When you feel along the bones in your neck, you are touching the cervical spine. There are eight cervical spinal cord nerves: C1 through C8. These nerves control the head, neck, shoulders arms and hands. The phrenic nerve emerges from the cervical spine and controls breathing by causing the diaphragm to move up and down, pulling air into and out of the lungs.

Injury to the cervical spine has the most severe impact on one’s quality of life and ability to function independently. If the top four cervical nerves, C1-C4, are damaged there will be complete paralysis, tetraplegia/quadriplegia, the need for a ventilator in order to breathe and complete reliance on caregivers.

Thoracic

The thoracic spine makes up most of your back. There are twelve thoracic spinal nerves: T1 through T12. The thoracic nerves control many of the abdominal organs and muscles of the back. Spinal cord trauma to the thoracic spine affects the trunk and legs, leaving the arms and shoulders functional

Lumbar

The lower back nerves exit the lumbar spine: L1 through L5. These nerves control portions of the legs, the genitals, buttocks, back and abdomen. It may be necessary to use a wheelchair after a lumbar spinal cord injury, but with therapy, walking with braces is possible.

Sacral

The sacrum is the lowest portion of the spine. Nerves that emerge from the sacrum control the external genitals, and portions of the legs and feet. Bowel and bladder control may be affected by a sacral injury, but walking is possible with therapy and special braces.

Spine Injury Advocacy

Damage at any point along the spinal cord can cause life-long debilitation. Dr. Greg Vigna, a rehabilitation physician and lawyer understands exactly what your injury means, and what type of spinal cord injury health care you will need. He is dedicated to getting you the best possible law settlement or jury verdict.