Back Injury Symptoms: Identifying a Herniated Disc Injury

The biggest problem when dealing with a Palm Beach back injury (link to Herniated Disc blog) is identifying the type. Not all injuries can be treated the same way, and it is important to know what type of injury you are suffering from so you can receive proper treatment.

A herniated disc injuryis a common occurrence when a person experiences trauma to the spine. The spongy discs between the vertebrae provide flexibility between the bones and absorb shocks to the spine. When a person’s back is injured, the disc may bulge, slip, or even rupture.

Symptoms of a herniated disc may include the following:

• Localized pain. If a disc is pressing on a nerve, the length of the entire nerve’s receptors may exhibit pain as far as the fingers and toes.
• Sciatica. A common side effect of a lower back injury, this occurs when a lower disc is pressing on a nerve through the back of the leg.
• Numbness. This is caused by compression of the nerve.
• Shoulder or chest pain. A higher disc may cause pain in the upper extremities.
• Backache. This may be caused by the original trauma or the compressed disc.
• Tingling. This often felt as “pins and needles,” as if the limb were asleep.
• Weakness. This can occur in back muscles, arms or legs.
• Muscle spasms. These can result from jolting or uneven compression of the nerve.

Many people who have a herniated disc may not be aware of it, since they will not experience pain unless the disc puts pressure on the nerves or spinal cord. Symptoms, including pain or numbness, may not appear immediately following the accident depending on the location of the disc.

Your doctor may order an x-rays after your injury, but these are not particularly helpful in diagnosing a herniated disc. An MRI is a more useful method, as it allows for better views of the spine, discs, and muscle tissue. A CT scan may also be required to provide a more detailed view for serious cases.

Those with labor-intensive jobs that require carrying heavy weights or bending are at a higher risk for slipped or herniated discs, but sports accidents or improper lifting techniques can also cause these injuries.

No matter what the cause, Florida back injuries can be frustrating, frightening, and debilitating. If you need help after an accident, get advice from an experienced Palm Beach accident attorney today by calling Fetterman & Associates at (866)-865-1244