Car accidents can cause a wide variety of different injuries. The sheer force of a crash can violently slam a person’s head forward and backward, making back, neck, and spinal injuries extremely common. These injuries are often painful and can result in a victim suffering from a herniated disc.
Herniated disc injuries can be serious. Not only do they cause tremendous pain, but they can also compromise a person’s ability to work, move, and enjoy the activities they once participated in.
At Sherrod & Bernard, P.C., we want car accident victims to be able to recognize the signs and symptoms of herniated discs. We’re ready to help you seek fair compensation if you were injured due to someone else’s negligence.
Car accident victims frequently report herniated disc injuries caused by the force of impact. Car accidents are often violent events that can place a huge strain on the human body. The head, neck, and spine are particularly at risk of harm in the event of a collision.
Whiplash is one of the most common injuries suffered in car crashes. Whiplash occurs when the momentum of a crash, like a rear-end accident, sends a victim’s head rapidly forward and then backward. This quick and violent motion can strain the muscles and nerves in the neck, causing severe pain and potentially a herniated disc.
What Is a Herniated Disc?
The spinal cord is a bundle of nerves that runs from the brain down the entire length of the back. A series of bones called vertebrae protect this bundle of nerves. Between the vertebrae are soft, round, jelly-like cushions called discs. These discs keep the vertebrae from rubbing against one another and act as shock absorbers.
A herniated disc occurs when the disc’s soft nucleus is forced through a tear in the rubbery outer layer of the disc. Most herniated disc injuries occur in the lower back, called the lumbar region. However, violent events like car accidents can cause herniated discs anywhere in the spine.
What Are the Symptoms of a Herniated Disc?
The symptoms of a herniated disc can depend on the location of the injury. Disc injuries in the upper spine may cause different symptoms than in the lower regions. One of the most common signs of a herniated disc is pain and discomfort. However, there are several other signs of a herniated disc that should not be ignored. These potential signs include:
- Arm or leg pain
- Muscle weakness
- Numbness or tingling
- Back or neck pain that radiates to other areas
- Pain or discomfort that changes when you sit, stand, or walk
You should immediately seek medical attention after an accident. If symptoms begin to develop in the days or weeks after the crash, do not hesitate to go back to your doctor.
What Are Some Other Possible Causes of Herniated Discs?
Car accidents can put a great deal of strain on the body. However, other factors can also contribute to developing a herniated disc. Repeated wear and tear on the spine can cause discs to deteriorate over time. This gradual degradation can lead to a ruptured or herniated disc, even from a minor twist or strain. Age can also result in a gradual deterioration of the discs in the spine.
Other risk factors that can contribute to herniated discs include the following:
- Being overweight
- Improperly lifting heavy loads
- Smoking
- Sitting for long periods
- Falls or other accidents
- Sports-related injuries
A combination of factors can also result in a herniated disc injury. Being overweight may place more stress on the discs. If that overweight person is involved in a serious car accident, the crash may be the trigger for a herniated disc injury.
What Can I Do for a Herniated Disc from a Car Accident?
After being involved in a car accident, the most vital step you can take is to seek medical attention immediately. Do not wait to get the care you need. A medical professional can assess your injury and create a treatment plan to address your unique needs.
In some cases, a herniated disc injury may only need to be treated with proper rest and medication. In other cases, a herniated disc may require surgery and physical therapy. Potential surgical interventions can include:
- Spinal fusion
- Disc replacement
- Discectomy
- Laminectomy
If you have been diagnosed with a herniated disc, you need to follow your doctor’s orders. Rest and give your body time to heal. Do not push yourself or deviate from your physician’s treatment plan. Keep all scheduled appointments and take medication as prescribed.
Following these guidelines offers you the best chance at a successful recovery. Getting medical treatment and following your doctor’s instructions can also help strengthen your car accident claim.
What Can It Cost to Treat a Herniated Disc?
The cost to treat a herniated disc will vary from patient to patient. No two injuries are ever identical. A disc injury that only requires rest and medication will be significantly less expensive to treat than a condition that will require surgery and after-care such as rehabilitation or physical therapy.
Prices can also vary between clinics and hospitals. Some practices may have different pay structures or agreements with insurers. Whether an insurance carrier is paying will also impact the cost of treating a herniated disc injury. However, cost should never deter you from seeking medical treatment for your injury. If you were involved in a car accident and are worried about the cost of treating a herniated disc, talk to the Douglasville team at Sherrod & Bernard, P.C., today.
What Is a Herniated Disc Claim from My Accident Worth?
Just like the cost of treatment, the value of your herniated disc claim will depend on several unique factors. These factors can include the severity of your injury and the accident. It takes a careful review of your claim and the circumstances of the accident to determine what your case is worth. You want compensation that accounts for your medical expenses, not someone else’s.
You do not have to accept the first offer that an insurer throws your way. Talk to a skilled car accident attorney first about what your claim may be worth. You may be entitled to compensation that will cover your medical expenses, lost wages, and property damage.
Contact the Car Accident Lawyers in Douglasville Today
Did a car accident cause your herniated disc injury? Contact an experienced Douglasville car accident attorney with Sherrod & Bernard, P.C., today. You might be owed compensation for your herniated disc if someone else caused the crash and your injury. Reach out to our office today to set up your free, no-obligation case evaluation.
