Spinal Stenosis And Auto Accident Claims
Auto accidents can trigger different medical complications, some of which you might not connect to the accident at first. An example is spinal stenosis, which affects the spinal cord. Below is an overview of the injury and its connection to auto accidents.
Meaning and Connection to Auto Accidents
The spinal cord comprises a nerve bundle running through the spinal canal. Spinal stenosis is an injury where external forces narrow the spinal canal, causing pressure on the nerves. The injury is most common in the lower part of the spinal cord, but it can strike anywhere in the cord.
An accident that affects your back can cause spinal stenosis. For example, the abrupt acceleration from a rear-end crash can push your back into the car seat, injuring the spinal cord enough to cause spinal stenosis.
Effect on Life and Associated Damages
Spinal stenosis can affect your life in several ways. For example, the injury is painful and can distract you from work and reduce your quality of life. Spinal stenosis can also weaken and numb your legs, making engaging in activities that require walking, running, or standing difficult. For example, those suffering from the condition might struggle to:
- Work in a warehouse that involves walking and standing
- Play golf
- Work as a tour guide
- Work as a dog walker
The specific effects on your life depend on your circumstances and pre-injury lifestyle. For most people, spinal stenosis leads to claims of lost damages and pain and suffering.
In addition, spinal stenosis diagnosis and treatment can also inflate your medical bills. You may need imaging tests, such as X-ray and MRI (magnetic resonance imaging), to diagnose the injury. Treatment can involve physical therapy, medication, and surgery in worst-case scenarios.
Proving Your Claim
Talk to a lawyer to help you prove the injury and its effects on your life. You will need a strong case because accidents aren't the only cause of spinal stenosis. For example, some people suffer spinal stenosis due to rheumatoid arthritis that inflames the spinal cord. Other causes include spinal tumors, bone diseases, and surgery complications.
The defendant will likely argue that your spinal stenosis stems from causes other than the accident. Your work is to tie the condition to the accident. For example, you can use past and present medical records to prove that you never had the condition before your accident. Eyewitnesses can testify how you easily engaged in your daily activities previously.
To learn more information, reach out to a personal injury attorney near you.
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