Brain injuries are the leading cause of death and disability, with 1.5 million Americans receiving one and only 230,000 surviving. Spinal cord injuries are just as serious as brian injuries, with between 250,000-500,000 occurring each year. Both of these types of injuries cause complications in the patient’s life and could cause long-term rehabilitation or disability. To help avoid getting such a costly injury it is best for individuals to take preventative measures to try not to incur one at all. Knowing the top causes of these types of injuries can help prevent them.
What are the Leading Causes of Brain and Spine Injuries?
Motor vehicle accidents are the leading cause of both brain and spine injuries as they account for 30%-50% of these types of injuries. The driver or any of the passengers, in the front or back, can receive a concussion or suffer from whiplash. Falls cause around 30% of spinal cord accidents. Serious types of injuries are usually suffered from falling down the stairs or falling from a great height. Sports and other recreational activities make up 21% of brain injuries. Sports alone make up 9% of spinal cord injuries. Shootings and other assaults also make up a small portion of brain injuries. Any of these accidents can cause a permanent disability that could affect the injured person and his or her quality of life.
How To Avoid Possible Injuries
Accidents cannot always be avoided, but by taking preventative measures the chance for them can be reduced. This can be accomplished by:
· Wearing all protective safety gear when playing both during games and training sessions.
· Teaching players how to fall to avoid risks of injury during practice or a game.
· When in a car, ensuring that all passengers, especially children, are wearing the correct safety belts or seated in the proper car seats for the size.
· Always getting behind the wheel of the car sober to be able to drive with the optimal skill and reaction time to account for changing driving conditions.
· When going up and down stairs, making sure to use hand railings and, if carrying a box, making sure the box does not obstruct visual range.
· Avoiding going out alone at night, especially in a town or city that is strange or unknown.
By keeping these measures in might one be able to avoid receiving a disabling injury that could drastically change the way he or she lives.
What If an Injury Does Occur?
If an accident does occur that causes a traumatic brain or spine injury, then treatment should be sought instantly. These types of injuries can be expensive to treat as they can cause numerous problems that may need long-term treatments. A personal injury claim may be the only way for an accident victim to cover the medical treatments and possible loss of work. Brain and Spine injuries are some of the most difficult to treat and may have to have surgeries along with long-term rehabilitation. It is important for injured patients to make sure they are getting the correct care at all times. As their care goes on they need to make sure they are not victims of medical malpractice or negligence. If the patient feels as if their medications or treatments are not helping them, then they may wish to explore other options.