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You’re driving down the road when the unthinkable happens. Another driver cuts into your lane or follows too closely and causes a rear-end collision. When accidents occur, you could suffer a variety of common injuries, including herniated discs.
Herniated discs are among the most common spinal cord injuries associated with car accidents, and rates of injuries to the cervical spine (neck area) are greater than those in the lumbar (lower back) region.
When this type of injury occurs, it could lead to a range of undesirable symptoms and secondary injuries, which is why immediate diagnosis and treatment are so important. Here’s what you need to know if you suffer a herniated disc in an accident.
What Is the Cervical Spine?
The cervical spine consists of several vertebrae in the neck area, including C1 through C7, along with shock-absorbing discs that rest between them.
This portion of the spine, which extends from the base of your skull to the top of your back, supports your head and allows for a unique range of motion, so you can swivel your head side-to-side, tilt it forward and back, or bend it toward your shoulders.
What Is a Herniated Disc?
Discs are located between vertebrae to provide cushioned support. Each disc has a rubbery outer surface called an annulus, and a soft, jelly-like center called a nucleus. Herniated discs are characterized by a rupture to the annulus that allows the nucleus to leak out, potentially leading to a range of symptoms and secondary injuries.
During a car accident, the force of impact can cause discs to slip out of place or rupture.
Symptoms of a Herniated Disc
When a C4/C5 or C5/C6 disc ruptures, the most common symptoms include:
- Shoulder/arm pain
- Numbness or tingling
- Burning sensations
- Muscle weakness
Unfortunately, failure to diagnose and treat a herniated disc could lead to worsening symptoms and secondary injuries. It’s not abnormal for patients with this injury to experience headaches, which may worsen with movement of the neck or arms.
In rare cases, patients may have trouble breathing or experience neurological issues like loss of bladder or bowel control or even paralysis.
Diagnosis and Treatment Options
Early diagnosis and treatment are important with herniated discs. Medical professionals can diagnose this condition with a physical and neurological exam to assess the cause of pain and check reflexes, sensation, muscle weakness, and so on. Further tests like imaging may also be required.
For mild to moderate pain and other symptoms, a doctor may prescribe nothing more than an over-the-counter pain reliever and anti-inflammatory.
Muscle relaxers can help if you suffer spasms related to a herniated disc, and prescription painkillers often help with more intense pain. Additional treatment options include corticosteroid injections to reduce inflammation, physical therapy, and surgery.
What To Do if You Suspect a Herniated Disc Following an Accident
Whether you’re involved in a relatively minor fender bender or a major hit-and-run accident, you could find yourself dealing with a serious injury like a herniated C4/C5 or C5/C6 disc. If you have any symptoms like pain or numbness in your upper extremities immediately after an accident or in the following hours or days, it’s best to seek medical attention.
Proper diagnosis and care can help minimize symptoms and prevent further harm. In addition, medical records can be an important part of filing a claim for insurance coverage and negotiating a fair settlement. If you’re concerned about compensation for an accident that wasn’t your fault, contact a qualified attorney for legal guidance and support.
Contact the McAllen, TX Car Accident law firm of The Law Office of Lino H. Ochoa to schedule a free initial consultation.
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