If you have been involved in an auto accident, you are likely aware of the immediate physical and emotional toll it can take. However, some injuries, such as a herniated disc, may not be immediately apparent but can cause significant pain and discomfort in the days, weeks and even months following the accident. In this page, we will explore what a herniated disc is, how it can occur in an auto accident, and what steps you can take to protect your legal rights if you have suffered this type of injury.
What is a Herniated Disc?
A Herniated disc, also known as a slipped or ruptured disc, occurs when the soft center of a spinal disc pushes through a crack in the tougher exterior casing. This can result in irritation or compression of nearby nerves, leading to symptoms such as:
- Persistent back pain;
- Numbness or tingling in the arms or legs;
- Weakness in the muscles served by the affected areas; and
- Radiating pain down the arms and legs.
How Do Herniated Discs Occur in Auto Accidents?
Auto accidents can subject the body to sudden extreme forces, leading to a variety of injuries, including herniated discs. Some common scenarios in which a herniated disc may occur during an auto accident include:
- Whiplash: The sudden acceleration and deceleration forces of a rear-end collision can cause the spine to flex and extend rapidly, leading to disc herniation in the cervical (neck) region.
- Impact: Direct impact to the spine, such as hitting the steering wheel or dashboard during a collision, can also cause discs to herniate.
- Twisting or Torque: The twisting or torqueing of the spine during a collision can put excessive pressure on the discs, leading to herniation.
Its important to note that symptoms of a herniated disc may not appear immediately following an accident. In some cases, symptoms may develop gradually over time as inflammation and swelling worsen.
Contact Me for a Free Consultation
If you have suffered a herniated disc in an auto accident, do not hesitate to seek the legal guidance and representation you need to pursue fair compensation for you injuries. Contact me, Attorney Lauren Winer Beck, for a free consultation on your case. I am here to fight for the compensation and justice you desrve. Remember no fee unless I recover money damages for you.