Why Spinal Injuries in Children Are a Serious Concern
Children’s spines are more flexible than adults’, but that does not make them less prone to injury. In fact, pediatric spines can absorb force differently, making them more susceptible to stretching injuries that might not appear on initial scans. Spinal cord injuries without radiographic abnormality (SCIWORA) are prevalent in younger children, and often go undetected without advanced imaging.
The effects of spinal trauma may also unfold over time. What begins as a minor injury can lead to spinal curvature, nerve damage, or chronic pain if not properly treated. In more severe cases, children may face long-term limitations in movement, bladder or bowel dysfunction, or even paralysis.
How Spinal Injuries Happen in Different Types of Accidents
While vehicle collisions remain a leading cause of pediatric spinal trauma, they are not the only risk. Many types of accidents can result in damage to the spine or spinal cord:
- Car accidents: Children involved in crashes, especially if improperly restrained or seated in the front, are at higher risk of cervical spine trauma or whiplash. A child that has been in a car accident may not show spinal cord injury in symptoms until hours or even days later.
- Bicycle and scooter accidents: Falls from a bike, scooter, or e-bike can generate enough force to fracture the spine or injure the spinal cord, especially if the child lands on their back or neck.
- Sports injuries and playground falls: Contact sports like football and wrestling, or even monkey bar falls, can lead to thoracic or cervical spine injuries in children, particularly during growth spurts.
- Slip and fall incidents: Uneven surfaces, wet floors, and poor lighting can result in a sudden fall with traumatic consequences, including lumbar spine injuries or ligament injuries to the spine.
Types of Spinal Injuries in Children
Spinal Fractures
A child’s spinal fracture from an accident may involve any part of the spinal column, cervical, thoracic, lumbar, sacral, or coccygeal. These breaks can occur when sudden pressure compresses or twists the vertebrae. If the fracture is stable, it may heal with bracing and rest. Unstable fractures, however, can damage the spinal cord or surrounding nerves and may require surgical intervention.
Spinal Cord Injuries
A child’s spinal cord injury after an accident can result in partial or complete paralysis, depending on the location and severity of the damage. Injuries higher up the spine generally affect more areas of the body. Damage to the cervical spine, for instance, can impair both arms and legs, while lumbar trauma may impact only the lower extremities. Spinal cord injury representation is vital with these types of injuries that can have a lifetime burden of expense.
Dislocations and Subluxations
A spinal dislocation occurs when one vertebra slips out of place in relation to another. A subluxation of the spine in a child is a partial dislocation, which is less obvious but potentially just as harmful. These misalignments can pinch nerves, restrict movement, and interfere with normal spinal growth.
Ligament and Soft Tissue Injuries
Soft tissues like muscles, tendons, and ligaments, support the spine and keep it stable. A ligament injury to a child’s spine might not appear on an X-ray, but can still cause significant pain and instability. These injuries may also lead to long-term complications if scar tissue forms improperly during healing.
Whiplash and Neck-Related Spinal Trauma
Although commonly associated with adults, whiplash claims in children are also prevalent, especially after rear-end collisions. This type of trauma affects the neck’s soft tissues, including muscles, discs, and nerves.
Signs and Symptoms of Spinal Injuries in Children
Spinal trauma is not always obvious, especially in young children who may struggle to explain what they feel. Songs can include:
- Neck or back pain
- Weakness or tingling in arms or legs
- Trouble walking or unsteady gait
- Loss of bladder or bowel control
- Stiffness or refusal to turn the head
- Unusual posture or favoring one side of the body
In some cases, a child may only appear more tired than usual or complain vaguely about discomfort. This is why any physical complaint after an accident, no matter how minor it seems, should be taken seriously.
When to Seek Immediate Medical Attention
Call 911 or seek emergency care if a child has:
- Lost consciousness
- Limited movement in arms or legs
- Difficulty breathing
- Severe neck or back pain
- Any visible deformity of the spine
Potential Complications From Childhood Spinal Injury
Beyond pain and mobility issues, a pediatric spine trauma can lead to devastating long-term complications. Paralysis is often parents’ biggest fear, but it is not the only risk. Spinal trauma can also lead to:
- Loss of sensation
- Neurological issues
- Breathing difficulties
- Organ dysfunction
- Delayed physical development
This is why spinal injuries can be catastrophic even when there is no diagnosis of paralysis. Some children may require lifelong medical equipment or personal care assistance.
Long-Term Care and Rehabilitation Needs
Recovery from a pediatric spinal trauma is not always linear. Depending on the severity of the injury, care may involve:
- Physical therapy
- Occupational therapy
- Assistive devices
- Ongoing neurological evaluation
- Mental health support for both child and family
The long-term effects of spinal injuries in children can include physical, emotional, and social challenges. Kids may struggle to keep up at school or feel isolated from peers. That is why rehabilitation must address the full scope of the child’s development, not just the physical healing.
Helping Families After a Child’s Spinal Injury
When a child is hurt, everything changes. Families often face not only emotional stress but also medical bills, insurance challenges, and disrupted routines. If the injury was the result of someone else’s carelessness, whether on the road, at a school, or in a public place, you have every right to pursue a legal claim.
At Frank Azar Car & Truck Accident Lawyers, we understand the unique aspects of child injury cases compared to adult ones. These lawsuits are about protecting your child’s future. A Denver accident lawyer from our firm can help your family understand your legal options and take action to secure the care and support your child needs. We offer free consultations and have multiple office locations throughout Colorado. Contact us today to schedule your review.
