Spinal cord injuries can be caused by damage to the vertebrae, ligaments, discs, or the spinal cord itself. Traumatic spinal cord injuries typically occur as a result of a sudden and severe blow to the spine, which can lead to various forms of damage.

When a traumatic incident such as a car accident, fall, or sports-related injury occurs, the force applied to the spine can cause fractures, dislocations, crushing, or compression of one or more vertebrae. These injuries can then affect the spinal cord, leading to functional impairment and neurological deficits.

It's important to note that the severity and extent of the spinal cord injury depend on the location and extent of the damage. Injuries higher up in the spinal cord often result in more severe complications, as they can impact a larger portion of the body and vital functions such as breathing, while injuries lower down may affect specific regions or limbs.

The consequences of a spinal cord injury can vary widely and may include paralysis, loss of sensation, impaired motor function, bowel and bladder dysfunction, respiratory problems, and other complications. Treatment and rehabilitation options for spinal cord injuries aim to manage symptoms, promote functional recovery, and improve the overall quality of life for individuals affected by these injuries.

Injuries to the lumbar spine often involve ligamentous injuries and herniations of the discs. These injuries can occur in various sports as well as in everyday life. Sports such as racquet sports, lifting sports, and golfing, which involve twisting and carrying equipment, can commonly lead to lumbar spine herniations.

When treating this condition, it is often beneficial to consult with a local massage therapist to address muscle tension, a personal trainer to improve muscle strength, and a physiotherapist for release and conditioning exercises.

In diagnosing disc herniations and evaluating their impact on nerve roots, MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) is considered the best imaging modality. While disc herniations can also be seen with CT (Computed Tomography), the exact relationship to the nerve roots or spinal cord higher up in the spine cannot be determined as accurately as with an MRI.

MRI provides greater detail and allows for a closer examination of the soft tissues. CT scans are useful for visualizing the bones and identifying potential spinal fractures, but they do not provide the same level of detail for soft tissues, particularly in the lower lumbar spine where artifacts can be more pronounced.

One of the key advantages of MRI is its ability to visualize the anatomy in multiple planes. This allows surgeons to assess the degree of compression on nerve roots and make informed decisions about the need for surgical intervention versus conservative management for disc herniations.

If you have any specific questions or concerns regarding lumbar spine MRI, it is recommended to consult your family doctor or an imaging center. They will be able to provide further guidance and address any queries you may have.