Houston Back Injury Attorney: Lumbar Sprains & Strains Explained

This week, we covered a Galveston personal injury lawsuit involving Hugo Trevino, a Harris County man who suffered a serious back injury in a League City car accident two years ago. Trevino, who was rear-ended by an unlicensed and speeding driver, suffered two herniated disks, two bulging disks, and a lumbar sprain that made it difficult for him to support his family or even accomplish everyday tasks at home.

Unfortunately, serious back injuries are far too common in Texas car accidents. They can not only lead to chronic pain and long-term medical bills, they can also affect the overall quality of your life.

What is a lumbar sprain? What is a lumbar strain?
Lumbar sprains and strains are the most common causes of lower back pain. Very simply, a lower back sprain occurs when the ligaments (elastic tissues that hold together bones) in your back tear. Lower back strain takes place when these ligaments are stressed and stretched. Both lumbar strains and sprains can be caused in a variety of ways, including traffic accidents, recreation and sports activities, work injuries, and slip and fall accidents.

What are the consequences of lumbar sprains and strains?
Lower back pain injuries such as strains and sprains can cause severe pain and inhibit regular movement. In some cases, it can cause weakness in the legs, stiffness, and muscle spasms. Some cases of lower back injuries can render patients immobile, causing days, weeks, or months of missed work. In fact, lower back pain is one of the most common reasons for sick day usage.

Up to 90 percent of those who suffer lumbar sprains will recover completely from their injury - though recovery could take weeks or months of bed rest and limited mobility. Some back injury sufferers may find that they have chronic back pain, while others may find themselves more susceptible to consequential strains and sprains.

Have you suffered a lumbar sprain in an accident?
Serious back injuries can result in high medical bills, significant lost wages, and a lowered quality of life. If you have suffered a lower back injury because of the carelessness or negligence of another person, speak with a Houston back injury attorney today about your case.