Home » Injuries & Treatments » Back / Lumbar Injuries

Back pain is a condition that has affected 70-85% of adults in the US at some point in their lives, leaving 2 million completely disabled and another 5 million partially disabled.^[1] The most common cause of the pain is the result of a back or lumbar injury.^[2]

What are the types of back injuries?

Back injuries may appear suddenly (acute) or progress gradually over time (chronic). Sudden injuries include strains or sprains of the back muscles, a fracture or dislocation of the spinal column or a torn or ruptured disc. These injuries are generally a result of a slip or fall, car accident or other traumatic injury.

Chronic injuries often cannot be pinpointed to a specific event, but may be a result of gradual, degenerative changes in condition over a period of weeks, months or even years. Degenerative disc disease, or DDD is a common cause. These types of injuries may be caused by poor posture or incorrect movement while lifting, sitting, walking, standing or sleeping.^[2] Trauma to the spine, such as from a fall or car accident, can accelerate his process.

What causes back injuries?

Minor back injuries are commonly caused by tripping or a short fall, while more severe lumbar injuries result from falls from greater heights, motor vehicle accidents, an assault that involves a direct blow or stabbing and hard fall on the buttocks.^[2] Back problems are more likely to appear or increase as an individual ages. Rates for lumbar injury in Brevard County are impacted because one-fifth of its population is over 65.^[3] This demographic may make Palm Bay, Melbourne, and Titusville back and lumbar injury rates higher. Age and other risk factors, such as family history and inherited degenerative diseases increase the likelihood of suffering a lumbar injury.

Are there conditions that cause back pain other than lumbar injuries?

Yes. Some conditions lead to back pain without an injury to muscles or bones in the back. There are some diseases, such as osteoarthritis or Paget’s disease, that lead to a weakening of the back, causing back pain.^[2] Additionally, medical conditions of the back, like scoliosis and Scheuermann’s disease, cause deformities that lead to pain without the individual suffering an acute or overuse back injury.^[2]

How is a back injury diagnosed?

A Brevard or Palm Bay back or lumbar injury specialist can examine the back to determine the cause of symptoms. Diagnostic tests such as X-rays, discograms, CT scans, MRIs, nerve conduction studies and myelography are used to determine if an injury exists. These tests also help to identify the appropriate treatment procedure to follow that will best help the patient.

How we can help

Couture Law, P.A. works with a number of leading back and lumbar injury treatment providers in Brevard County, and can provide referrals to those who are best able to answer your questions.
 

Couture Law, P.A. represents back injury victims in Brevard County and its major cities, including Melbourne, Titusville, Palm Bay and surrounding cities and towns.

• Florida Pain News, Florida Society of Pain Management Providers
• Back Problems and Injuries, WebMD.com
• U.S. Census Bureau Quick Facts, Census.gov