Los Angeles Disc Herniation
The spine is a remarkable piece of engineering, at the same time strong and flexible, solid and light, incredibly functional. The secret to this blending of strength and flexibility is a whole that is greater than the sum of its parts, namely segments of bone (vertebrae) cushioned by spongy discs. The bone is necessary for structure and protection of the bundle of nerves (spinal cord) that runs down the back; the discs are necessary for mobility and shock absorption. Without the bone, the spine could never support the body weight; without the discs, the vertebrae would be unable to move without grinding, or to bear jarring without slamming against one another.
Disc heriation refers to injury to these spinal discs. This may include slipping, swelling, or even rupture. For this reason, disc herniation is sometimes known as a slipped or ruptured disc. Such injuries are caused by trauma, either sudden and severe, such as a car accident, or the gradual accumulation of small traumas – “wear and tear” – that may over time set up a disc for herniation. It is not uncommon for disc herniation to cause pain and loss of mobility and functionality. Sometimes, a disc herniation injury may result from the negligence or action of others. When this is the case, personal injury law entitles you to legal action, and it is imperative to seek the best legal advice possible with an experienced Los Angeles back injury lawyer.
Injury to spinal discs most often occurs in the lower (lumbar) spine, the part of the spine most vulnerable to compression, a main cause of wear and tear. The upper (cervical – the neck) spine is vulnerable to quick, jarring movements, such as whiplash, which may also lead to disc injury. Finally, the thoracic (mid-back) is the least vulnerable to disc herniation, but is not immune under the right conditions.
A herniated disc may cause:
- Pain
- Weakness in the limbs
- Numbness in the limbs
- No perceivable symptoms
Damaged discs in and of themselves are rarely painful. It is the location and condition of the disc and how it compresses or otherwise affects spinal nerves that determines the degree of symptoms. It is possible for such an injury to exhibit virtually no symptoms. As surprising as this may be, it is equally unexpected to learn that most herniated discs heal on their own, requiring neither surgery nor chiropractic work. The most common medical advice is rest, ice, and cautious but regular exercise for the several months it often takes for a disc to heal. When this is unsuccessful, more invasive options can be considered, but potential benefits and costs must be carefully weighed.
If you or someone you love is in need of legal assistance relating to a back injury, call Sheridan & Rund, at 1-310-640-1200, toll free at 1-888-640-6789, or submit an online questionnaire. Our initial back injury consultation is absolutely free, and if our law firm agrees to handle your case, our Los Angeles back injury attorneys will work on a contingency fee basis, meaning we get paid for our services only if there is a monetary recovery of funds. You pay nothing out of pocket until our firm retrieves the compensation you deserve. It is imperative you contact our firm today because a lawsuit must be filed before the legal expiration date known as the statute of limitations. Please call Los Angeles attorneys Sheridan & Rund immediately to ensure you are rightfully compensated the money you deserve.