Woman sues over injuries she claims occurred during back procedure

GRETNA – A Jefferson Parish woman is suing a gel manufacturer and her chiropractor for injuries she says occurred during a pain treatment.

Julia Mendez filed suit against Sombra Cosmetics, Dr. Rusty Russo and Russo Chiropractic Clinic on Feb. 29 in 24th Judicial District Court.

Mendez claims she received severe burns on her back after she underwent a treatment for lower back pain.

The plaintiff alleges the Sombra gel was spread across her back by Dr. Russo before the administration of electrical stimulation. She claims the Sombra gel burned and blistered her skin.

Mendez claims she has had to undergo extensive and on-going wound care treatment, debridement and efforts to combat permanent scarring and disfigurement.

The defendants are accused of not warning about the potential dangers of the gel and manufacturing a product that is inherently and unreasonably dangerous.

An unspecified amount in damages is sought for medical expenses, pain and suffering, loss of earnings, loss of enjoyment of life and scarring and disfigurement.

Mendez is being represented by Baton Rouge-based attorney Aidan C. Reynolds.

Case number 711885 has been assigned to Division I Judge Nancy A. Miller.