What to do when you have a herniated disc from a car accident?
Are you dealing with the painful effects of a herniated disc from a car accident? You're not alone. Millions of people experience this form of spinal cord injury each year and it can be very debilitating. In this blog, we will explore what a herniated disc is, how it's caused by car accidents, and how to find relief and treatment for herniated discs after an auto accident.
We will discuss some possible legal recourse if your injuries were caused by another driver's negligence. Also, this article will explain how helpful an experienced Austin car accident lawyer can be for proving your herniated disc case.
What is a herniated disc?
A herniated disc is a medical condition that occurs when the cushions between the vertebrae in your spine (called discs) become damaged or slip out of place. This can occur due to age-related wear and tear, but it’s also commonly caused by trauma such as a car accident. The force of impact from a collision can cause the discs to bulge or rupture, leading to nerve damage and localized pain in your back, neck, or arms.
The severity of one’s herniated disc will depend on the amount of force involved in the accident and the particular area of your spine that was affected. Spinal disc injuries can be minor with only minor pain and discomfort, or they can be more serious with long-term effects such as paralysis or loss of motor function. No matter the extent of your injury, it’s important to seek medical attention right away if you experience any symptoms associated with a herniated disc after a car accident.
How do car accident cause herniated discs?
Herniated discs from car accidents typically occur when the force of impact causes the vertebrae to move rapidly in different directions, which can cause a herniated disc. The most common types of vehicle collisions that put you at risk for a herniated disc are rear-end and side-impact crashes. High speed impacts can also amplify the severity of your injury, as can any additional factors that weaken or destabilize your spine such as underlying medical conditions or pre-existing injuries.
It’s important not to dismiss any pain or discomfort after an accident because these symptoms may be indicative of a more serious spinal cord injury like a herniated disc. Experiencing pain in your lower back, neck, arms, or legs after a crash, as well as numbness, tingling, or weakness in your extremities can all be signs of a herniated disc.
What treatment is available for herniated discs from a car accident?
Treating a herniated disc from an auto accident will depend on the severity and extent of your injuries. In many cases, conservative treatments such as physical therapy, medication, and rest can help manage pain and aid in healing. Physical therapists may recommend exercises to help strengthen and stabilize your spine, while medications such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can reduce inflammation around the affected area. Rest is also important for allowing the damaged discs time to heal without added stress or strain.
More serious cases may require surgery if other treatments have failed or if there is nerve damage that needs to be addressed. A surgeon can perform a minimally invasive procedure to remove damaged disc material or insert a spinal fusion device to stabilize the joint. If you are suffering from a herniated disc due to an auto accident, be sure to discuss all of your treatment options with your doctor so that you can get the best care possible.
What damages are available in my car accident case for a herniated disc?
If your herniated disc was caused by another driver's negligence, you may be entitled to compensation for:
- Medical expenses
- Lost wages
- Pain and suffering associated with your injuries.
In order to pursue a personal injury claim related to a car accident-related injury, it's important that you document everything related to the incident such as medical records, evidence from the scene of the crash (photos or videos), witness statements, and more. Speak with a knowledgeable attorney to learn more about what legal options are available to you and how to best proceed with your case.
Reach out to Fletcher Law for help with your herniated disc car accident case
If you or someone you love has suffered a herniated disc injury due to a car accident, the experienced attorneys at Fletcher Law are here to help. Our legal team is committed to helping clients get the compensation they deserve for their injuries and losses. We understand how difficult it can be to deal with both physical and emotional pain after an auto accident, and we are dedicated to providing compassionate legal support throughout this process.
We have extensive experience dealing with cases involving herniated discs from auto accidents. With our insight into state laws governing personal injury claims, as well as our knowledge of medical terminology and treatments related to spine injuries, we will fight hard for your rights in court. We also have access to medical experts who can accurately assess the extent of your injury and provide expert testimony if needed. Our goal is to ensure that you receive the full compensation for your injuries that you deserve.