Understanding Herniated Disk Injuries
Herniated disk injuries occur in the spine, which consists of bones called vertebrae that are stacked on top of one another. Between each pair of vertebrae is a piece of cartilage known as a “disk.” The disks cushion the vertebrae, create space in the spine, and allow spine to move, so that its owner can stand, bend, reach, and twist. A “herniated” disk occurs when one of the disks moves out of place. If the disk breaks open, it is known as a “ruptured” disk.
Many different accidents or events can cause a herniated disk. On-the-job injuries that involve twisting awkwardly or lifting heavy objects can result in a herniated disk. A slip and fall injury might cause a herniated disk as well. Motor vehicle accidents can also cause herniated or ruptured disks, along with any other type of spine injury.
A herniated disk can occur at any place in the spine, but the lower or “lumbar” spine is the most common site. Symptoms of a herniated disk in the lower back include sharp pain in the leg, hip, or buttocks, and numbness or weakness in other areas on the same side of the body. The pain may get worse after standing or sitting, at night, when bending or walking, or during a sneeze, a cough, or a laugh.
If you suspect you’ve suffered a herniated disk injury or any other kind of back injury, it’s important to see a doctor as soon as possible. To learn more about your legal rights after an injury-causing accident, you can also contact a herniated disk injury attorney at Page Law for a free consultation.
