Spinal cord injuries are most commonly caused by trauma, and/or a sudden blow to the spine. This severe impact can damage the spinal cord, which can be severed, fractured, crushed or bruised. Depending on the level of vertebra impacted, the spinal cord damage can result in quadriplegia or paraplegia. Individuals who are paralyzed due to a spinal cord injury are likely to face daily challenges, mounting medical expenses and the possibility of future medical complications.