In this newsletter for personal injury attorneys, we strive to present sound medical information that has been used in previous cases for accident and injury victims.  Provided by chiropractors and medically trained professionals, it can help legal counsels in thier efforts to establish grounds for compensation for their clients.

Spinal Cord Compression vs. Spinal Cord Abutment – Trauma Series #8
When a space occupying lesion (something that doesn’t belong in a space, i.e. splinter, bullet or tumor) in the form of a herniated disc (by definition always from trauma), goes beyond the borders of the disc/vertebrate into the spinal canal, it can touch and/or push the spinal cord. 

If it pushes the spinal cord against the back of the spinal canal in a “pincer” fashion, with pressure both in front and back of the spinal cord, the result is a cord compression. When the herniated disc simply touches, or is against the spinal cord, leaving space behind the spinal cord, the result is a cord abutment. 

The difference is dramatic in symptomatology and necessity for treatment, where the cord compression is a much more serious condition, often necessitating surgery. Our next newsletter, Trauma Series #9, will detail the differences.

This information does not create any patient-physician relationship, and should not be used as a substitute for professional diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your health care provider before making any healthcare decisions. © 2019 – This copyrighted material is exclusive to Disc Center Of America – Vancouverm, Dr. Brian O’Neill. Unauthorized reproduction is prohibited.