Brad Bradshaw, M.D., J.D., L.C



America's Lawyer for
Spinal Cord Injury
Missouri & Nationwide Assistance



Call today for your FREE consultation


Signs & Symptoms of Spinal Cord Injuries

The spinal cord is the central bundle of nerves which travels through a bony canal extending from the brain. Nerves which branch peripherally from the cord are responsible for transmitting signals between the brain and the rest of the body. A spinal cord injury may occur as the result of a sudden, traumatic blow to the spine, causing bone fractures with compression of the spinal cord by bone fragments or a ligamentous injury with dislocation of the bones resulting in misalignment and damage to the cord.

In some cases, the injury is severe and clearly evident from the beginning. In these cases, early treatment is critical in reducing the extent of the injury. In very rare cases, rapid early intervention may prevent paralysis.


In other cases, the injury is more subtle. Signs and symptoms of a spinal cord injury can include:
  • Muscle weakness
  • Loss of coordination
  • Loss of movement
  • Tingling, numbness or loss of sensation
  • Loss of bowel or bladder function
  • Difficulty breathing
  • Pain

In some patients, a spinal cord injury may not be immediately apparent. While many individuals are aware of the immediate numbness or paralysis that can occur from a spinal cord injury, it may also develop gradually as a result of bleeding or swelling in the spinal cord. An accurate diagnosis and proper treatment are essential and may determine the extent of recovery.




Disclaimer: Information on this website and other web pages is of a general nature only. The information is not specific to any particular case and may not apply to your case. Statutes and other information listed on this site may not be current as laws are constantly changing. There are almost always exceptions to general principles of the law. This site does not contain legal advice and should not be used as such. This site is primarily designed so that you might ask more educated and important questions when you contact a qualified attorney. Retain a qualified attorney for legal representation or legal advice as soon as possible. Almost all cases require legal analysis by a qualified attorney. This website confirms to the ethical rules of Missouri which is the principle location of practice, where Dr. Bradshaw's license is continually active and where all the permanent staffed offices are located. When working on cases outside the state of Missouri a co-counsel, often called local counsel, will be hired. This applies even to states in which Dr. Bradshaw is licensed to practice law. Dr. Bradshaw is not certified by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization. Fees vary and range from 10% to 50% depending on the nature and complexity of the case. The choice of a lawyer is an important decision and should not be based solely upon advertisements. Meetings with lawyers will be by appointment only. Past results afford no guarantee of future results and that every case is different and must be judged on its own merits. Working with and referring cases to other attorneys. Some photos and scenes may depict simulations. Client may be responsible for costs or expenses in some cases.