Spinal stenosis is a painful back condition that usually
affects a person’s neck or lower spine. It is often caused by the trauma of a car crash or a slip and fall accident. Spinal stenosis results when the open spaces in the spine narrow, causing pressure on the spinal cord and the nerves leading to the arms and legs.
A person can suffer from one of two types of spinal stenosis: lumbar stenosis and cervical stenosis. Lumbar stenosis is more common and occurs when the spinal nerve roots in the lower back are compressed. Cervical stenosis results in the neck area and is much more dangerous because the spinal cord is compressed.
Symptoms of Lumbar and Cervical Stenosis
The warning signs of spinal stenosis can occur over time, and the pain is inconsistent and may come and go. For lumbar stenosis, a person may experience the following:
- Lower back pain
- Leg numbness and tingling
- Limitations in walking
People with cervical stenosis may have similar symptoms and other additional problems. Signs a person is suffering from cervical stenosis include:
- Numbness
- Weakness or tingling in a leg, foot, hand, or an arm – a tingling in a hand is the most common symptom
- Problems with walking and balance
- Loss of bladder or bowel control if nerves to these body parts are damaged
Treatment for spinal stenosis can include medications, physical therapy, and sometimes surgery in severe cases. The goals are to help the accident victim manage the pain and increase his mobility. However, spinal stenosis can severely limit the activities once enjoyed by the accident victim, and in very serious cases, stenosis can become debilitating. If this happens, the victim may be entitled to compensation for his medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering from the person or business that caused his injuries.
Have You Been Injured In A Henderson Or Las Vegas Accident?
If you’ve been injured in an accident such as a car accident, you need to speak with our experienced car accident lawyer in Henderson and Las Vegas as soon as possible. Contact us online or call our Henderson office directly at 702.405.6000 to schedule a free initial consultation.