This one-hour course is designed to help the participant understand the mechanics of the lumbar spine, and in particular the intervertebral disc, and the potential for injury in low- to moderate-speed rear vehicle impacts. Through the use of a case study, participants will engage in the evaluation of a commonly alleged claim following rear vehicle impacts – the herniated lumbar disc – from the perspective of a biomechanical engineer. The course will introduce participants to lumbar spine anatomy, as well as the function and degeneration of the intervertebral disc, while exploring the injury potential to lumbar discs during rear vehicle impacts. Participants will navigate the scientific and medical literature to develop an understanding of the mechanisms required for disc herniation and the prevalence of lumbar disc abnormalities in the general population, as well as risk factors for developing degenerative disc disease. By the end of this course, participants should have a general understanding of intervertebral disc mechanics, occupant kinematics in rear vehicle impacts, and the process by which a biomechanical engineer evaluates personal injury allegations following a traffic accident. 

Presented by: 

Appaji Panchangam, Ph.D., P.Eng., ACTAR

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