Back Injury
1. Acute Injuries
- Sprains and Strains– These involve damage to ligaments (sprains) or muscles and tendons (strains). Symptoms typically include pain, swelling, and reduced mobility.
- Herniated Discs- A herniated disc occurs when the soft material inside a disc in the spine bulges out, potentially pressing on nearby nerves. This condition can lead to pain, numbness, or weakness in the limbs.
- Fractures– Spinal fractures can be particularly serious, often requiring surgical intervention. They may result from severe trauma or osteoporosis.
- Spinal Cord Injuries– Spinal cord injuries are often severe, requiring extensive medical care.
2. Chronic Injuries
Chronic back injuries develop over time, often due to repetitive strain or degenerative conditions. Common chronic back injuries include:
- Degenerative Disc Disease– This condition involves the gradual wear and tear of spinal discs, leading to pain and reduced mobility. Symptoms may worsen with activity and improve with rest. However, trauma can bring the symptoms forward.
- Sciatica– This term describes pain that radiates along the sciatic nerve, which runs from the lower back down to the legs. A herniated disc or spinal stenosis often causes it.
- Spinal Stenosis occurs when the spinal canal narrows, putting pressure on the spinal cord and nerves. Symptoms may include pain, numbness, and difficulty walking.
Symptoms of Back Injuries
Recognizing the symptoms of back injuries is essential for prompt treatment. Common symptoms include:
- Localized Pain – Discomfort may occur in specific areas of the back, often worsened by movement.
- Radiating Pain – Pain may extend to the legs or arms, indicating potential nerve involvement.
- Numbness or Tingling – These sensations can signal nerve damage or compression.
- Muscle Weakness – Difficulty in lifting objects or performing daily tasks may indicate a more serious issue.
- Rest and Activity Modification – Allowing the body to heal by avoiding activities that exacerbate pain.
- Physical Therapy– A tailored physical therapy program can help strengthen muscles, improve flexibility, and promote healing.
- Medication– Over-the-counter pain relievers or prescribed medications can help manage pain and inflammation.
Surgical Interventions
In cases where conservative treatments fail, surgical options may be considered:
- Discectomy—This procedure involves removing part or all of a herniated disc to alleviate pressure on spinal nerves.
- Spinal Fusion– A surgical technique that connects two or more vertebrae to stabilize the spine.
- Laminectomy– This procedure removes a portion of the vertebra to relieve pressure on the spinal cord or nerves.
What Causes Back Injuries?
Back injuries are prevalent and can stem from a variety of incidents, often leading to significant physical and emotional challenges. Recognizing the causes of these injuries is crucial, as is understanding your rights if you are affected.
Conservative Treatments
Car Accidents: A Leading Cause
Workplace Incidents: Falls and Repetitive Motion
Recreational Vehicle Accidents
Crushing Injuries
- Name and contact information.
- Insurance company and policy number
- Driver’s license number
- License plate number
- Make, model, and color of the vehicle.
Legal Considerations for Back Injury Claims
1. Establishing Liability
In personal injury claims related to back injuries, establishing liability is critical. This involves proving that another party’s negligence directly caused the injury. Key elements to consider include:
- Duty of Care– The responsible party had a legal obligation to ensure the safety of others.
- Breach of Duty- The responsible party failed to meet this obligation, resulting in an unsafe situation.
- Causation– There must be a direct link between the breach of duty and the injury sustained.
- Damages– The injured party must demonstrate the extent of their injuries and the impact on their life.
2. Types of Damages
- Medical Bills and Expenses– Reimbursement for the injury’s past and future medical costs.
- Lost Wages– Compensation for income lost due to the inability to work following the injury.
- Pain and Suffering– Compensation for the physical and emotional distress caused by the injury.
- Physical Disability– Damages for being unable to do things you used to do.
- Loss of Enjoyment of Life- Compensation for the loss of joy experienced due to the injury.
3. Shared Fault in Texas
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Contact the Preeminent Rated Personal Injury Lawyer at Baumgartner Law Firm for Help!
If you have a back injury from a car accident or another event, you may deserve significant compensation. At Baumgartner Law Firm, our injury attorneys understand that back injury cases can be complex. We are dedicated to supporting our clients throughout the legal process. Whether your back injury is recent or long-lasting, our experienced team is ready to assist you. We want to help you receive the compensation you deserve.
If you or a loved one has suffered a back injury, contact our law firm today to discuss your options and receive personalized legal guidance. (281) 587-1111. FREE CONSULTATION
Related Resources
- Ruptured Discs after a Car Accident: How It Can Impact Compensation
- The Most Common Injuries in Truck Accidents
- Houston Spinal Cord Injury Lawyer
- Common Catastrophic Injuries and Their Effects
- What Is an 18-Wheeler Accident? Causes & Consequences
About Our Law Firm in Houston
Houston personal injury lawyer Greg Baumgartner heads the Baumgartner Law Firm.
Our firm was established in 1985 and has helped thousands of injury victims get maximum compensation for their cases. If you have been injured in an accident in Houston, TX, contact us for a free, no-obligation consultation. (281) 587-1111.
Since 1985, Baumgartner Law Firm has limited our law practice to serious personal injury cases. Our legal team has won maximum compensation for thousands of accident victims and recovered millions of dollars for real people like you.
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