Types of Lumbar Injuries in Auto Accidents

The lumbar spine, or the lower back, is a vital and vulnerable part of the body that can be easily injured in auto accidents. The lower back consists of five large bones, called the lumbar vertebrae, that are connected by intervertebral discs, facet joints, ligaments, muscles, and nerves. The lower back supports the weight and movement of the upper body, while also protecting the spinal cord and the nerves that branch out from it. However, the lower back is also susceptible to various types of injuries, especially when subjected to sudden and forceful movements, such as those that occur during a car crash.

Some of the common types of lumbar injuries that are often seen in auto accidents are:

Lumbar Sprain or Strain

A lumbar sprain or strain is an injury to the soft tissues of the lower back, such as the muscles, ligaments, or tendons. A lumbar sprain or strain can occur when the lower back is overstretched, twisted, or compressed by the impact of the accident, causing tears, inflammation, and spasms. A lumbar sprain or strain can cause pain, stiffness, reduced range of motion, and muscle weakness in the lower back. A lumbar sprain or strain can be diagnosed by a physical examination, an X-ray, or an MRI. A lumbar sprain or strain can be treated with rest, ice, painkillers, anti-inflammatory drugs, and physical therapy.

Herniated Disc

A herniated disc, also known as a slipped or ruptured disc, is a condition where the soft inner material of the intervertebral disc bulges out through a tear in the tough outer layer. A herniated disc can occur when the disc is compressed or twisted by the impact of the accident, causing inflammation and irritation of the surrounding nerves. A herniated disc can cause pain, numbness, tingling, or weakness in the lower back, buttocks, legs, or feet, depending on the location and severity of the herniation. A herniated disc can be diagnosed by a physical examination, an X-ray, an MRI, or a CT scan. A herniated disc can be treated with medication, injections, physical therapy, or surgery, depending on the symptoms and response to conservative treatment.

Spondylolisthesis

Spondylolisthesis is a condition where one of the lumbar vertebrae slips forward over the one below it. Spondylolisthesis can occur when the vertebra is fractured, cracked, or weakened by the trauma of the accident, causing instability and misalignment of the spine. Spondylolisthesis can cause pain, stiffness, reduced range of motion, and nerve compression in the lower back. Spondylolisthesis can also lead to spinal stenosis, which is a narrowing of the spinal canal that can cause further nerve damage and symptoms. Spondylolisthesis can be diagnosed by a physical examination, an X-ray, an MRI, or a CT scan. Spondylolisthesis can be treated with medication, braces, physical therapy, or surgery, depending on the type and degree of the slippage.

Spinal Fracture

A spinal fracture, also known as a vertebral fracture or a broken back, is a condition where one or more of the lumbar vertebrae are cracked or broken. A spinal fracture can occur when the vertebra is subjected to a high-energy impact, such as a head-on collision, a rollover, or an ejection from the vehicle. A spinal fracture can cause severe pain, swelling, bruising, deformity, and difficulty moving the lower back or the limbs. A spinal fracture can also damage the spinal cord or the nerves, resulting in paralysis, loss of sensation, or loss of function in the affected areas. A spinal fracture can be diagnosed by a physical examination, an X-ray, an MRI, or a CT scan. A spinal fracture can be treated with a brace, a halo, or surgery, depending on the type and location of the fracture.

Conclusion

The lumbar spine is a complex and delicate structure that can be easily injured in auto accidents. The types of lumbar injuries that are often seen in auto accidents can vary from mild to severe, and can affect the quality of life and the ability to work of the injured person. Therefore, it is important to seek medical attention as soon as possible after an accident, and to consult with a qualified and experienced personal injury lawyer who can help you obtain the compensation you deserve for your injuries. If you have been injured in an auto accident, contact Brubaker Injury Law today and let us help you get the justice you deserve. Call us at (800) 817-9301 or visit our website at www.brubakerinjurylaw.com to schedule your free consultation. Brubaker Injury Law: We are here for you.