Complete vs. Incomplete Spinal Cord Injuries

A black and white image of a man with a spinal cord injury in St. Louis The moment a spinal cord injury occurs, life can change in ways no one ever expects. Suddenly, everyday movements, independence, and long-term health become uncertain. Understanding the difference between a complete and incomplete spinal cord injury can help injured individuals and their families better grasp what lies ahead.

For over 30 years, the attorneys at Brown & Brown, LLP, have stood up for people facing life-altering harm across St. Louis, MO, and nearby Illinois. Their work with serious injury cases, including spinal cord injury claims, has aided thousands of families in pursuing accountability and financial recovery during incredibly difficult times.

Complete Spinal Cord Injuries

A complete spinal cord injury means there is a total loss of motor function and sensation below the point of injury. When this happens, the brain cannot send or receive signals past the damaged area.

Key characteristics include:

  • No voluntary movement below the injury site
  • No sensation, including pain or temperature
  • Long-term paralysis, such as paraplegia or quadriplegia

These injuries typically require lifelong medical care, adaptive equipment, and significant lifestyle adjustments.

Incomplete Spinal Cord Injuries

An incomplete spinal cord injury occurs when some nerve signals are still able to pass through the injured area. This means partial movement or sensation may remain below the injury site.

Common features include:

  • Limited mobility or sensation
  • Uneven strength or feeling on each side of the body
  • Potential for improvement over time with rehabilitation

Every incomplete spinal cord injury is different, and outcomes can vary widely depending on the extent of nerve damage.

Why the Distinction Matters in Injury Claims

From a legal perspective, whether a spinal cord injury is complete or incomplete can affect:

  • The cost of ongoing medical treatment
  • Lost income and future earning ability
  • Long-term care and accessibility needs

At Brown & Brown, attorneys take the time to understand the medical realities of each case. They work closely with professionals to pursue compensation that reflects both current and future challenges.

Contact a Spinal Cord Injury Attorney Today

A spinal cord injury case is about more than financial recovery — it’s about protecting your future and securing the care you need. If you or a loved one has experienced a spinal cord injury due to an accident or work-related incident, reach out to Brown & Brown for help.

Call 314-333-3333 or 573-333-3333 in St. Louis, or 618-888-8888 in Illinois, to schedule a free consultation and discuss your next steps with a legal team that puts people first.

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