Our Car Accident Lawyers at Montlick and Associates, Attorneys at Law, have seen a broad range of motor vehicle accidents and injuries during our three decades representing auto collision victims. Although there are many injuries that a vehicle occupant could suffer in a crash, herniated disc injuries are among the most common types of debilitating injuies. NOTE: In this blog article, we will provide an overview of general information regarding herniated disc injuries in the context of personal injury claims. None of the information contained herein should be construed as medical advice and, if you believe you are suffering from any type of spinal injury, you should consult a medical doctor.

What Is a Herniated Disc?

When the disc between the bones of the spine ruptures, this type of injury is referred to as a disc herniation. The discs between the vertebrae in our spine are flexible and soft during childhood, but they tend to become more inelastic with age. This fact means that vehicle occupants over the age of thirty face a higher risk of suffering a herniated disc during a collision. Most spinal injuries, including herniated discs, have the potential to irritate surrounding nerves.

Diagnosis of a Herniated Disc

While many auto accident victims end up in the emergency room after a crash, x-rays are not an effective way to identify a herniated disc. Unfortunately, many emergency room doctors will not conduct further scans because they are focused on identifying bone fractures. Even if your x-rays are negative during your visit to the emergency room, you should see an orthopedic doctor if you experience any of the following symptoms, among others:

  • Sensation of Electrical Shock: When the disc pinches a nerve in the spine, an injury victim might experience a sensation that feels like an electrical shock. This sensation might radiate through the arms or legs, depending on the affected area of the spine.
  • Tingling or Numbness: If you have ever had a limb fall asleep, the same “pins and needles” sensation can be an indication of herniated disc.
  • Cauda Equina Syndrome: Numbness of the genital area, or difficulty with bowel movements or urination can be a sign of a serious medical condition that warrants immediate medical attention.

An orthopedist can conduct further diagnostic tests, which may reveal a herniated disc issue, such as an MRI. The physician will also usually ask probing questions about the location of numbness, tingling, or shock sensations, because such information can help the doctor determine which disc has been damaged.

If your doctor prescribes a course of treatment and physical therapy, you generally should attend the appointments and complete your treatment regimen and rehabilitation. If you believe your injury was caused by the negligence of another person or company, you should consult with one of our attorneys at Montlick & Associates, Attorneys at Law. Our attorneys can advise you on your rights as well as what steps can be taken to obtain compensation for your injuries. Your compensation can include a monetary recovery for medical expenses, lost wages, Pain & Suffering, and more.

Put Our Law Firm’s Over 39 Years of Experience to Work For You!

While this blog provides general information about disc herniation injuries in car accidents, the best way to get more specific and detailed information is to speak to an experienced Atlanta car accident lawyer. The law firm of Montlick and Associates, Attorneys at Law, has been representing those who suffer serious injuries throughout all of Georgia and in the Southeast for over thirty years, including but not limited to Albany, Athens, Atlanta, Augusta, Columbus, Gainesville, Macon, Marietta, Rome, Roswell, Savannah, Smyrna, Valdosta, Warner Robins and all smaller cities and rural areas in the state.

No matter where you are located, our attorneys are just a phone call away, and we will even come to you. Call us 24 hours a day/7 days a week for your Free Consultation at 1-800-LAW-NEED (1-800-529-6333). You can also visit us online at www.montlick.com and use our Free Case Evaluation Form or 24-hour Live Online Chat.