Nerve damage might sound straightforward, but it is usually anything but. The nerves in your body form a massive network that controls how you move, feel, and function. When that system is compromised, things can go wrong fast. In many personal injury cases, nerve damage isn’t just a side effect of another injury—it’s the main issue.
A lot of people assume nerve damage only refers to numbness, tingling, or short-term discomfort that’ll go away on its own. But in truth, it can be far worse and last much longer. Nerve issues might lead to anything from chronic pain and muscle weakness to burning sensations and, in severe cases, complete loss of feeling in certain areas of the body.
In Galveston, nerve damage can occur for a number of reasons, often relating to injuries from an accident. Take a closer look at how these injuries tend to happen and what your options are if you believe you’ve suffered nerve damage.
Common Causes of Nerve Damage
Car wrecks are a common cause of nerve damage in Galveston. The force of the impact can stretch, crush, or even sever nerves. Motorcycle crashes can be even more dangerous because the lack of protection leaves riders wide open to serious trauma.
Slips and falls are another major cause. When someone hits the ground hard—especially landing on their back or neck—the spine can get compressed. That pressure might lead to nerve damage around the spinal cord, which can interfere with everything from walking to bladder control.
Then, there’s medical negligence. Surgeries gone wrong, a needle striking a nerve during an injection, or failure to treat an infection—all of these issues can lead to serious, lasting nerve problems.
Additionally, people who work in construction or industrial jobs around Galveston face daily risks. A mishap with heavy equipment or exposure to toxins can change everything.
Not All Nerve Injuries Are the Same
There are three main types of nerve damage. Each one affects the body in a different way, and knowing the difference can help you understand what you’re experiencing or feeling.
Sensory nerve damage is perhaps the most obvious. You may feel tingling, numbness, or a sharp stabbing pain in the affected area. These symptoms usually start in the hands, feet, or limbs, and this kind of damage can make even simple things like holding a cup or walking barefoot hard to do.
On the other hand, motor nerve damage affects movement. If you’ve noticed muscle weakness, twitching, or trouble with coordination after an accident, nerve damage may be the culprit. The loss of control isn’t always complete, but some people can’t control the affected muscles at all.
Autonomic nerve damage interferes with things you generally don’t think about, such as your heart rate, digestion, breathing, and similar body functions. It’s harder to spot at first, but it can have major impacts. Imagine not being able to control your blood pressure or suddenly fainting without warning. Either situation can be a risk when the autonomic nervous system is injured.
Legal Implications of Nerve Damage
Nerve injuries are often hard to spot right away. After an accident, the body may go into shock, and adrenaline takes over. You might not feel pain or notice anything strange until days—or even weeks—later.
That delay can create issues for your legal case, especially when you need to show what actually caused the injury. Insurance companies often push back and say the damage came from something else or that you’re making it sound worse than it is. But a delayed onset doesn’t make your symptoms any less real.
Living With the Long-Term Effects
People in Galveston who are living with nerve damage often face more than just physical pain. Everyday tasks like driving, working, and even getting dressed can feel impossible. The emotional strain can be significant, too.
Some need help with mobility or daily care. Others struggle with sleep because of pain. As a result, chronic nerve issues often lead to anxiety or depression.
Nerves tend to heal slowly. Many people see improvement with physical therapy, medication, or surgery, while others may live with symptoms for the long term.
When Nerve Damage Disrupts Your Life, You Have Options
If someone caused your nerve injury, it’s important to hold them accountable. Texas law gives you the right to seek compensation for your medical bills, lost income, and pain and suffering. However, nerve damage can be hard to prove, so you need strong evidence and a clear timeline that shows exactly how your life has changed.
The skilled team at The Law Firm of Alton C. Todd Personal Injury Lawyers understands how much nerve injuries can take from a person. If you’re in Galveston and living with the effects of a serious injury, you deserve someone in your corner who knows how to fight for your best interests. Reach out today at (409) 207-9299 to get started with a free consultation.
