It’s common to develop back pain after a car accident. Even a small amount of force can damage the structures of the spine, and result in pain that gradually develops weeks or months after the accident. Many times this pain is the result of a herniated disc. Dr. Greg Vigna is a motor vehicle injury lawyer and rehabilitation doctor who understands the nature of these types of injuries; he works with experts in the field of orthopedics, neurosurgery and rehabilitation to get you the best evaluation and treatment possible. Dr. Vigna considers the life-long effects of serious injury and chronic back pain on quality of life, ability to work and engage in day to day activities. These are integrated into your comprehensive legal case.
What is a Herniated Disc?
Intervertebral discs lie between the bones that make up your spine; these bones are called the vertebrae. A disc is made up of a fibrous outer ring, and has a gelatinous center. It provides excellent shock absorption and cushioning between the spinal bones.
During auto accidents shock to the spine can cause the disc to rupture. Which discs are damaged depends entirely upon how the accident happened, and where the spine had to absorb the most force. Many disc injuries are in the neck or lower back, but they can happen anywhere along the spine.
Disc rupture means that the fibrous outer coating of the disc has developed a tear and the inner gelatinous material of the disc begins to push out. Back pain develops gradually after a car accident, because with walking and normal movement more and more of the gelatinous material is pushed out of the disc. This material then begins to press on the spinal nerves that leave the spinal cord through the vertebrae.
Symptoms of a herniated disc include radiating pain, numbness and weakness. A CT scan or MRI is often needed to diagnose this condition and surgery may be required to remove the disc that has ruptured.
It’s Not Too Late
Even though it can be weeks to months for back pain to develop after a motor vehicle accident, it’s not too late to seek legal help for your injuries. Dr. Vigna, attorney at law can refer you to the best experts in your condition and advocate for your long-term recovery needs. As your motor vehicle injury lawyer he develops a case that takes your comprehensive recovery needs into account. For a free consultation, call our law office.
