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No Cameras in the Delivery Room? The Disturbing Truth Behind the Ban

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Neck and Back Injuries: Herniated Disc

Many sufferers of neck and back pain suffer from a herniated disc (sometimes spelled "disk"). Often referred to as a "slipped disc" or "ruptured disc," the injury can even cause pain in the arms and legs, and some victims of herniated discs require surgery in order to heal completely. Though others may only require minor treatment, the pain caused from a herniated disc can, at times, be extremely difficult to bare.

What exactly is a herniated disc? In order to understand how a disc ruptures, one must first know what a spinal disc or intervertebral disc is itself. A spinal disc is often described as a soft, rubbery pad located in between two vertebrae in the spinal column. Though discs are referred to in such a way that makes them sound extremely flexible or spring-like, they decrease in water content and begin to harden as children and young adults grow into adulthood. They also shrink with age, and the spaces between the vertebrae become smaller. When a part of the center nucleus breaks through the fibrous outer covering of a disc, the disc presses on a spinal nerve. This phenomenon causes a herniated disc, often resulting in noticeable pain due to the extreme sensitivity of nerves.

Common causes of herniated discs are lifting while bent at the waist, sudden pressure or physical trauma, smoking, and high body weight. If you feel that you may be suffering from a herniated disc, determine if you have any of the following symptoms: sciatica (shooting pain down the leg), weakness in one arm or leg, tingling or numbness in one arm or leg, and neck or shoulder pain. If your pain is the result of a fall or sudden impact from a car accident or another type of accident, consult a physician as soon as possible. After proper diagnosis (which may involve simple examination, x-rays, or an MRI or CT scan), your doctor will recommend treatment options. Most victims of herniated discs require minor, non-surgical treatment like rest, pain relievers, ice, heat, careful exercises, or steroid injections. In extreme cases, surgery may be required for complete healing.

Our law firm handles car accident cases, worker’s compensation cases, and other types of personal injury cases resulting from accidents that led to spinal cord injuries. If you have been injured in an accident that was not your fault, call 770-577-3020 for a free consultation. There is absolutely no obligation.