Your Injuries are Specific to You
Lumbar means pertaining to the abdominal segment of the torso. There are five vertebrae (bones) in the lumbar region of the back (L1 - L5). These are the largest and best of the spinal column. In between each lumbar vertebra, a nerve root exits to form the sciatic nerve. The sciatic nerve runs through the back of each leg and into the feet are torn from their attachments.
Muscle strains and lumbar sprains are the most common cause of low back pain. A muscle strain occurs when the muscle fibers are abnormally stretched or torn. These are difficult to distinguish, as both will have similar symptoms. These symptoms can be:
- pain around the lower back and upper buttocks
- low back muscle spasms
- pain associated with activities
- relieved with rest
Most patients develop a lumbar sprain or muscle strain because they are doing an activity that places their back at risk. This may be a sudden forceful movement, lifting a heavy object or twisting the back in an unusual manner.
Herniated Disc / Bulging Disc / Disc Prolapse (Slipped Disc) can be used interchangeably. This is less common in the cervical spine and more often occurs in the lumbar region. About 90% will occur at (lumbar) L-4 and L-5 or (sacral region) S-1. A herniated disc may occur suddenly in an event such as a fall or accident, or may occur gradually with repetitive straining of the lumbar region. It occurs when the center of the disc leaks out of the disc and puts pressure on the nerves which merge from the spine.
If the injury is in the cervical region, the patient will present with pain in the neck and shoulder which may radiate down the arm. The pain is exacerbated by neck movement. If the injury is located in the lumbar the patient may have weakness in extending the big toe. They may also complain of numbness and/or pain on top of the foot. If the injury occurs in the sacral region, the patient will have weakness when attempting to stand on their toes and numbness and/or pain on the outside or sole of the foot. A MRI scan is helpful in the diagnosis. The x-rays, physical exam, and patient's symptoms are information that plays a part in the treatment plan.
At Murphy Law Firm LLC, our experienced attorneys provide representation for Personal Injury cases in Louisiana. With more than 28 years of combined legal experience, our lawyers work hard to obtain successful resolutions for our clients and their families. Our lawyers will deal with the insurance company and work to ensure that they live up to their obligations and pay you the compensation you deserve. Do not sign any settlement offer or offer any statement to the insurance company without first consulting with Murphy Law Firm LLC. Don't Be A Victim Twice!
Sciatica is inflammation of the sciatic nerve. The most common cause of sciatica is a herniated disc. This compresses the nerves and patients experience pain, weakness, and numbness. Common symptoms include shooting pains from the buttocks down the leg or a burning sensation in the thigh. There are different treatment options for sciatica.
Fracture of the Lumbar Spine (Broken Back) is a serious energy and usually caused by high-energy trauma like a car crash, gunshot wound, or fall. The thoracic region of the spinal cord can also be fractured. The spinal cord may be injured depending on the severity of the fracture. When the lumbar or thoracic region is fractured, surgery or bracing is necessary.
Learn More about the Injuries You Suffered Caused By Your Accident
If you or someone you love has been involved in an accident and is injuries, contact us at Murphy Law Firm LLC to learn more about your injury and what our firm can do to help you get the compensation you deserve. Call our Baton Rouge office locally at 225-928-8800 or toll free at 800-734-6545 to make an appointment for a free initial consultation. All cases are taken on a contingency basis.
