Motorcycle Accidents and Spinal Cord Injuries: New Science and New Hope

According to the most recent study available, it is estimated that the annual incidence of spinal cord injury (SCI) is approximately 40 cases per every million people in the U.S., translating to around 12,000 new cases each year. Although medical technology and treatment procedures are constantly being developed, the following information outlines major methods used in modern SCI treatment.

Regenerate Axons Within the Central Nervous System (CNS)

Physical injury to the spinal cord causes mechanical disruption and degeneration of ascending and descending axons, which can result in various neurological abnormalities—most prominently paresis and paralysis. Axonal regeneration is a crucial treatment for preventing these problems.

Use Surgical Decompression of the Spinal Cord and/or Stabilization of Vertebrae

Surgical decompression of the spinal cord prevents further damage from occurring by minimizing the effects of the primary injury and blocking pathways that allow debilitating effects to spread.

Promote Regeneration and/or Sprouting of Remaining Axons

Axonal regeneration is defined as the regeneration of a previously lost axon, while neuronal sprouting refers to the “sprouting of an axon from an uninjured and viable neuron.” Treatments involved in this process include administering drugs to alter neuroinflammation, reduce free radical damage, reduce excitotoxic damage to neurons, and improve bloodflow.

Eliminate or Immunologically Prevent Axons Encountering These Inhibitory Myelin Proteins

Since inhibitory molecules (myelin) at the site of SCI constrain axonal regeneration, medical professionals strategically prevent regenerating axons from coming into contact with inhibitory substrates. An alternative to this treatment approach is to block interaction with a receptor antagonist, or interfere with downstream signaling pathways to mollify the effects of myelin proteins on regenerating neurons.

The logistics of SCI medical treatment after a motorcycle accident can be complex, as can the legal ramifications. To discover how you or a loved one can obtain fair compensation after a bike crash, contact our experienced Colorado motorcycle injury firm today, and schedule a free consultation.