Understanding disc herniations
Posted in Accident & Injury on August 17, 2017
Anyone with a disc injury knows how problematic they can be.
Discs act as cushions between spinal vertebrae. They act as shock absorbers and ligaments to hold vertebrae together, allowing for movement of the spine.
Injured discs can be extremely painful and debilitating. A herniated disc can cause lower back pain and produce symptoms in other areas of the body. When a bulging disc hits surrounding nerves, symptoms may be felt in the legs, arms or other area of the body, depending on which disc is affected.
Herniated discs can make it difficult to sit or stand. A herniated disc can cause changes to an individual’s gait and walking may be difficult.
Many disc injuries are the result of an accident such as:
- Car accidents
- Motorcycle accidents
- Slip-and-fall accidents
In a recent case, a man reinjured a pre-existing herniated disc after falling on ice in a Barnes & Noble parking lot. He also suffered a fractured ankle and ligament tears. The case was recently settled for $605,000.
Treating herniated discs
Unfortunately, disc herniations can be hard to treat. Steroid injections into the spinal column can help reduce inflammation and pain. Some disc herniations are treated surgically through a diskectomy, which removes the portion of the disc that is protruding and causing symptoms.
Spinal fusion surgeries are usually a last resort for individuals who have not had success with more conservative options.
Physical therapy is often recommended to those with disc injuries. This can help strengthen muscles and take pressure off the affected discs.
Free consultation: Individuals who have suffered back and disc injuries in accidents caused by another person or party’s negligence may be eligible for compensation. Call 1-800-ELK-OHIO today.