When Car Accidents Result in Cauda Equina Syndrome

One of the more common types of injuries that can result from a car or truck accident is a herniated disc, which can result in severe lower back pain. This injury on its own can cause chronic pain and may require various medical treatments, physical therapy, and in some cases, surgery. A severe herniated disc injury from a motor vehicle accident can also develop into cauda equina syndrome, which is a rare but serious condition that requires immediate medical intervention. 

In any herniated disc injury, the soft cushioning between the vertebrae ruptures, which pushes the cushioning out of place where it can easily compress the surrounding nerves, causing tingling, numbness, or pain. When an injury results in cauda equina syndrome, the nerve roots are so compressed that they can't communicate properly with your pelvic organs and lower extremities.

Symptoms of cauda equina syndrome include: 

• bowel or bladder issues (including incontinence);
• severe lower back pain;
• sudden sexual dysfunction; and
• muscle weakness or numbness in the legs, buttocks, thighs, feet, including painful sensations that continue to worsen. 

If you are diagnosed with cauda equine syndrome, you'll likely need emergency surgery (preferably within 48 hours of the trauma) to try and stop the nerve root compression and potentially prevent any permanent damage from taking place. If you have any of the above symptoms, you should seek immediate medical attention. It is also possible that you may not fully recover, even with surgery, and experience continued bladder and bowel dysfunction for some time. 

If you were involved in a traffic accident that resulted in a severe herniated disc injury or cauda equina syndrome, you may be eligible to recover compensation for your medical bills and other expenses through filing a West Virginia personal injury claim. To determine your eligibility you should consult with a Clarksburg personal injury lawyer.

For more information on herniated disc injuries and personal injury claims, please visit our article library.

Contacting a Clarksburg Personal Injury Lawyer After a Traffic Accident

Unfortunately, car accidents are a regular occurrence on West Virginia roadways such as I-79, I-77, Route 50, Route 33, and I-68. In fact, our state averages over 40,000 car crashes, over 400 deaths, and over 11,000 serious injuries each year. If you or a loved one has been seriously injured in a West Virginia car accident, order a FREE copy of our consumer guide, The 7 Biggest Mistakes that Can Wreck Your West Virginia Car Accident Claim then contact the Clarksburg personal injury attorneys at The Miley Legal Group for a FREE consultation - 304-326-1800.