Question
Is a bruised and swollen spinal cord considered an injury.  I was told that it would take a while for the swelling to recede, but I was never paralyzed.  Surgery was performed to remove pressure and prevent further damage.

Answer
Hi Gary,
Thanks so much for your question.

Yes. Although, it is rare, you can bruise the spinal cord without suffering any paralysis or loss of feeling.

When there is a trauma (bruising, stretching, or a partial/total severing)  to the spinal cord, blood begins to pool at the level of injury thus causing swelling. Depending on the amount of blood and swelling, scarring will occur at which point the damage usually cuts off communication between the brain and the body.

I am very glad that you did not suffer any paralysis or loss of feeling.

If you have anymore questions, please feel free to ask me anytime.

Thanks again,
John McKinzie