There has been a very interesting discovery that could have a significant impact on how spinal cord injuries are treated. Keep reading to learn what this breakthrough is and how working with a personal injury attorney could help you get the funds necessary for the latest in medical breakthroughs. Then contact The Law Offices of Larry H. Parker at 800-333-0000 for a free legal consultation.
A Story of Potential Success
The story driving this article is about a 38-year old man who was stabbed more than a decade ago. Since the stabbing, he has lost feeling and movement in his body from the chest down. Doctors at his college in London looked into implanting olfactory cells – those cells responsible for smelling – into his spine.
Why these cells? Because they are known for their incredible ability for regrowth – and it worked! They implanted the cells into his spinal cord, the previously damaged nerve cells did regrow, and the man was able to walk again. Why do we call this potential success? Because, to date, it has only been done on one person. More research and many more procedures are necessary before it can be a full success.
Thousands of People Suffer Spinal Cord Injuries Every Year
On average, about 12,500 people suffer a spinal cord injury each year. While anyone can experience this type of injury, they are most common amongst people aged 15 to 45. Why? Because people in this age range are also the most likely to be involved in a car accident, and car accidents are the leading cause of spinal cord injuries. At any given moment, there are about 275,000 people in the United States that are living with some form of spinal cord injury.
The Average Age of a Spinal Cord Victim is Rising
In 1970, the average age of a person with a spinal cord injury was 29. In 2021 the average age of a person with a spinal cord injury is 42. There are many reasons this number has increased, including changes to the population, but it is also true that more older people ride motorcycles and engage in other risky behaviors than in previous years.
Men Are Much More Likely to Suffer a Spinal Cord Injury
Interestingly, 79% of these injuries occur to men. Why? Because they are also more likely to take part in risky behaviors, and risky behaviors all too often lead to serious injuries such as spinal cord injuries. Second to car or motorcycle accidents, falls make up 30% of spinal cord injuries with violence and sports taking up third place.
If you have suffered a spinal cord injury, contact The Law Offices of Larry H. Parker at 800-333-0000 for a free legal consultation.
