NYC Incomplete Spinal Cord Injury Lawyer

Understanding Incomplete Spinal Cord Injuries

An incomplete spinal cord injury (SCI) occurs when the spinal cord is partially damaged but not completely severed. This means some nerve signals can still travel past the injury site, allowing for partial movement or sensation. The extent of recovery depends on the severity of the damage, medical treatment, and rehabilitation efforts.

Types of Incomplete Spinal Cord Injuries

Incomplete spinal cord injuries vary in severity and impact depending on which part of the spinal cord is affected. Unlike complete spinal cord injuries, individuals with incomplete SCIs retain some degree of movement or sensation below the injury site. The most common types include:

Anterior Cord Syndrome

This injury affects the spinal cord’s front (anterior) portion, leading to loss of motor function and pain/temperature sensation below the injury level. However, individuals may still retain some touch and position sense (proprioception). Anterior cord syndrome is often caused by trauma, such as flexion injuries in car accidents or reduced blood flow to the spinal cord.

Central Cord Syndrome

This type of injury is common in neck (cervical) trauma, particularly in older individuals with pre-existing spinal degeneration. It affects the center of the spinal cord, impairing motor function more in the arms and hands than in the legs. While some degree of recovery is possible, fine motor skills may remain significantly affected.

Brown-Sequard Syndrome

This occurs when one side of the spinal cord is damaged, leading to unique symptoms on each side of the body. Individuals often experience paralysis or weakness (loss of motor function) on the same side as the injury while losing pain and temperature sensation on the opposite side. This injury is often the result of penetrating trauma, such as stab wounds or gunshot injuries, but can also be caused by tumors or infections affecting the spinal cord. 

Cauda Equina Syndrome

This occurs when the bundle of spinal nerves at the lower end of the spinal cord (the cauda equina) becomes compressed, leading to severe neurological symptoms. Common effects include loss of bowel and bladder control, numbness in the groin or inner thighs (saddle anesthesia), and progressive weakness in the legs. Cauda equina syndrome is considered a medical emergency that requires immediate surgical intervention to prevent permanent damage.

Each of these conditions can lead to life-changing consequences, and individuals suffering from incomplete spinal cord injuries may require extensive medical treatment, rehabilitation, and adaptive therapies to regain as much function as possible. 

Common Causes of Incomplete Spinal Cord Injuries in NYC

Incomplete spinal cord injuries often result from traumatic accidents, many of which are caused by negligence. Common causes include:

Motor Vehicle Accidents

Car, truck, motorcycle, and pedestrian accidents are leading causes of spinal cord injuries. High-impact crashes can compress or twist the spine, leading to incomplete SCIs.

Construction Site Falls & Workplace Accidents

Falls from scaffolding, ladders, or heavy equipment accidents can cause severe spinal injuries. Under New York Labor Laws, injured construction workers may have legal claims beyond workers’ compensation.

Slip & Fall Accidents

Property owners must keep their premises safe. Falls from uneven sidewalks, broken staircases, or icy walkways can cause spinal trauma, leading to incomplete SCIs. 

Violent Assaults

Gunshot wounds, stabbings, or physical altercations can cause spinal cord damage. In some cases, property owners may be liable for failing to provide adequate security. 

Medical Malpractice & Surgical Errors

Errors during spinal surgery, anesthesia mistakes, or a misdiagnosed spinal condition can result in permanent spinal damage. These cases require aggressive legal action to hold negligent medical professionals accountable.

The Impact of an Incomplete Spinal Cord Injury

An incomplete SCI can lead to a range of complications, including:

• Partial Paralysis – Varying degrees of movement and sensation loss.
• Chronic Pain & Muscle Spasms – Nerve damage can lead to ongoing discomfort and involuntary muscle movements.
• Loss of Coordination & Balance – Making daily activities difficult.
• Bowel & Bladder Dysfunction – Nerve damage may cause incontinence or loss of control.
• Emotional & Psychological Trauma – Depression and anxiety are common due to the drastic changes in lifestyle and independence.

Legal Options for Spinal Cord Injury Victims in NYC

If your incomplete SCI resulted from someone else’s negligence, you may have multiple legal options, including:

Workers’ Compensation & Third-Party Lawsuits

If your injury occurred on the job, workers’ compensation may cover medical expenses and lost wages—but not pain and suffering. If a third party (such as a contractor, property owner, or equipment manufacturer) contributed to the accident, you may be able to file a personal injury lawsuit for full compensation.

Personal Injury & Premises Liability Claims

If your injury was caused by a car accident, slip-and-fall, or unsafe premises, you can pursue a claim against the negligent party. New York law allows injury victims to seek compensation for preventable injuries.

Medical Malpractice Lawsuits

If a doctor’s negligence caused or worsened your spinal injury, you may have a valid medical malpractice claim. Proving malpractice requires legal expertise and medical evidence, which our attorneys can help gather.

Compensation Available for Incomplete Spinal Cord Injury Victims

The financial burden of a spinal cord injury is immense. If someone else is responsible for your injury, you may be entitled to compensation for:

• Medical Expenses – Covers hospital stays, surgeries, rehabilitation, and assistive devices.
• Lost Income & Future Earnings – Compensation for lost wages and reduced earning potential.
• Pain & Suffering – Physical pain, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life.
• Home & Vehicle Modifications – Costs of making your living space wheelchair-accessible.
• Permanent Disability & Emotional Distress – Compensation for the lifelong impact of your injury.

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