Atlanta Falcons Team Physician Explains How Spinal Cord Injuries Can Occur

By Grant Law Office on August 28, 2013

On August 16, a Creekside High School football player took a fatal hit to his neck during scrimmage, according to a report by CBS Atlanta. A medical examination determined that the impact had fractured his third vertebra.

Dr. Brandon Mines, an associate with Emory Sports Medicine Center who is also a pro football team physician, said spinal cord injuries (SCI) can never be predicted, and the only way for athletes to prevent them is to take every precautionary measure.

The spinal cord is vital to the functions of the body. While SCIs are rare, they have the potential to be fatal.

“Breathing and conscious state, you’re talking about upper spinal cord injuries, head injuries. If you sever your spinal cord up high like this young boy had, you will completely [have] no motor function. You can’t breathe, your lungs won’t expand,” said Mines.

He went on to explain how it’s not so much the force of an impact that causes SCIs, but rather the angle. A few degrees can make the difference between life and death.

Mines believes athletes should get regular checkups and be taught proper tackling techniques in order to prevent SCIs.

A life can be devastated in the brief moment it takes for a SCI to occur. Even minor incidents can lead to extended periods of treatment and rehabilitation. Anyone who has suffered such a devastating injury due to the negligent or reckless actions of another should consult the skilled Georgia SCI attorneys at The Law Offices of Wayne Grant, P.C. right away. Through a comprehensive investigation of your case, we can find strong evidence for your claim and ensure that you get the compensation you need so you can stop stressing over financial burdens and start focusing on your physical and mental recovery. Call us at (404) 995-3955 to learn more about your legal options.