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Paralysis is the inability to control the muscles that move the body. There are
several levels of severity associated with paralysis, including paraplegia and
quadriplegia. The paraplegic has lost the partial or complete ability to move
the legs while the quadriplegic is partially or completely unable to move both
the legs and arms. Axiomatic brain injury (stroke) and spinal cord injury are
the major causes of paralysis. The extent of the paralysis depends on the
severity of the stroke or the location of the spinal cord injury. Paralysis can
be permanent or temporary. Although scientists are making progress, the
prognosis for reversing long-term paralysis is currently bleak.
Whiplash, also called cervical acceleration / deceleration trauma, is caused
by a sudden and violent movement of the neck. Such movement can cause damage to
vertebrae and cervical tissue found in the neck. Whiplash is typically
categorized as a soft tissue injury as the muscles and ligaments of the neck are
strained and swell, often resulting in pain and stiffness in the neck, headache,
nausea, numbness and loss of balance. It can take up to 24 to 36 hours after an
accident for these symptoms to manifest themselves.
The most common cause of whiplash is the rear end automobile collision. When
your vehicle is struck from behind, your neck will go through a snapping motion
resulting in the whiplash injury. Studies have shown that women are more
susceptible to whiplash then men, as the female neck is generally longer and
less muscular than the male neck. Women usually have more severe and longer
lasting symptoms.
Unfortunately, diagnostic tools such as the x-ray cannot effectively detect
soft tissue injuries; as a result whiplash often goes undiagnosed. Friends,
family, your insurance company, and perhaps even your doctor may doubt the
severity of your symptoms. It is important to see a doctor who specializes in
soft tissue trauma and to contact an attorney who can ensure that your legal
rights are protected. Related topics:
Spinal Cord Injuries
Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Spinal
Cord Injuries
Spinal Cord Injury
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