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INJURIES OF THE SPINAL CORD. Concussion of the Spine

Categories: Diseases of The Nervous System

A severe jarring of
the body followed by a group of spinal symptoms supposed to be due to some

minute changes in the cord, of an unknown nature.



Causes. Severe concussion may result from railway accidents or violent

bending of the body, fall from a house, blow on the back, jumping, etc.



Symptoms. May come on suddenly, when it is due to a jar of the brain as

well as the cord. Loss of consciousness, complete paralysis, small pulse,

collapse, and within a few hours death may follow. In other cases

improvement, though very slow, follows. Walking is difficult and the upper

extremities are weak in these cases. There are pain and tenderness along

the spine. Brain symptoms, such as headache, dizziness and fainting, may

be present or absent.



Treatment. Absolute rest from the beginning, stimulants if necessary,

electricity is useful.



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