Coal used for this process is called steaming coal. In 2008 77% of the electricity generated in Australia was produced by coal fired power stations (includes black and brown coals). Some types of black coal are suitable for coke-making.
These symptoms may occur in the back, leg and down to the foot. The most common nerve irritation originating from the lumbar spine is Sciatica. This is an irritation of the sciatic nerve, which can produce pain, numbness, and weakness down the leg along the areas innervated by the sciatic nerve.
Answer: Yes, serious nerve damage can occur with sciatica. The pain from sciatica is the result of very real damage to your sciatic nerve. Usually, this damage is only minor and will heal once the pinched nerve is relieved. In all probability it will not result in permanent nerve damage, but the possibility does exist.