Car accidents are among the leading causes of injury in the United States. While some injuries are immediately apparent, others may take days or weeks to surface. One of the more serious and often delayed injuries is a spinal disc herniation. Often misunderstood, this type of injury can significantly impact a person’s quality of life if not properly treated and addressed, both medically and legally.
We’ll take a closer look at disc herniation as a result of car accidents. We’ll explore what it is, how it occurs, common symptoms, the diagnostic process, treatment options, and what steps to take if you believe a negligent driver caused your injury.
What Is Spinal Disc Herniation?
The human spine is made up of vertebrae separated by cushion-like spinal discs. These intervertebral discs serve as shock absorbers and help maintain flexibility. Each disc consists of a soft, gel-like center (nucleus pulposus) encased in a tougher outer layer (annulus fibrosus).
A disc herniation occurs when the inner gel pushes out through a tear or rupture in the outer layer. This can place pressure on nearby nerves, resulting in pain, muscle weakness, or numbness.
How Car Accidents Cause Disc Herniation
Motor vehicle accidents, even those that seem minor, can generate enormous force. When a vehicle collides with another object, the occupants often experience sudden deceleration or jerking motions. These movements put tremendous strain on the spine.
Common accident scenarios include:
- Rear-end collisions: Can cause a whiplash effect, stretching spinal discs.
- Head-on collisions: Cause intense flexion in the cervical spine or lumbar spine.
- Side-impact crashes: Can rotate the spinal canal, risking damage.
Even when protected by seatbelts, disc injury can occur in these situations.
Symptoms of a Herniated Disc After a Car Crash
Not all symptoms appear immediately. Some develop over time. It is important to monitor your health after a crash for signs of spinal injuries.
Common indicators include:
- Back or neck pain
- Pain radiating into arms or legs
- Muscle weakness
- Limited range of motion
- Tingling, burning, or numbness
The affected region determines the symptoms:
- Cervical spine: Arms and hands affected
- Thoracic spine: Affects torso or ribs
- Lumbar spine: Pain into buttocks and legs (sciatica)
Diagnosis of Spinal Disc Herniation
If you suspect a disc injury, seek immediate medical care. Early diagnosis is essential to treatment and legal recovery.
Diagnostic tools include:
- Physical therapist evaluation
- Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)
- X-rays and CT scans
- Diagnostic tests like nerve conduction studies
Treatment Options for Herniated Discs
Treatment depends on severity. Many cases improve with non-invasive care, but others need surgical intervention.
Non-invasive treatment options:
- Physical therapist-led exercises
- Pain medication and muscle relaxers
- Epidural steroid injections
- Chiropractic care
Surgical options:
- Discectomy: Removal of disc material
- Spinal surgery or spinal fusion
In extreme cases, artificial discs may be considered.
Long-Term Impact of Disc Herniation
Even after medical treatment, a spinal cord injury may result in:
- Chronic pain
- Permanent injury
- Nerve damage or compression
- Loss of daily activities
This ongoing discomfort often affects a person’s quality of life, work capacity, and emotional health.
Legal Considerations
Victims of auto accidents may file a personal injury claim for:
- Medical expense
- Lost income
- Pain and suffering
- Loss of daily life capabilities
Insurance adjusters and insurance companies may challenge claims. They often argue that disc symptoms are unrelated or pre-existing. You need documentation from medical professionals and a clear link to motor vehicle collisions.
A legal team can:
- Investigate accident injuries
- Collect evidence and imaging
- Handle negotiations with insurance companies
- Prepare for court if necessary
Time Limit for Claims
South Carolina law gives three years to file an accident lawsuit. Delay could result in loss of rights. Early documentation and contact with a legal team help ensure your case is supported.
Proving the Injury Was Accident-Related
The biggest challenge in a disc claim is proving that the disc herniates due to the crash. You must establish this with:
- Imaging records
- Diagnostic testing
- Witness statements
- Ongoing medical care
When to Seek Legal Help
Seek representation if:
- Symptoms last beyond a few days
- A doctor confirms a lumbar disc herniation, cervical disc herniation, or spinal cord injuries
- You can’t work or do daily activities
- Your claim is denied
Final Thoughts
Common car accident injuries like disc herniation can have long-lasting effects. Do not wait to act. Whether you suffer from nerve damage, severe pain, or are facing pressure from insurance coverage providers, get informed and get legal support.
About Ted Law Firm
At Ted Law Firm, we help accident victims throughout South Carolina. We proudly serve injury victims in Aiken, Anderson, Myrtle Beach, North Augusta, Orangeburg, Charleston, Columbia, Greenville and Summerville. If you’ve been injured due to someone else’s reckless or criminal behavior, our experienced attorneys are here to help you seek justice and recover the compensation you deserve. Let Ted Law Firm help you file a successful claim for emotional damages. Contact Ted Law Firm today for a free consultation. We’re committed to supporting families in their time of need.
