Mark Casto | November 8, 2024 | Personal Injury Lawyer Near Columbus Georgia
Accidents can happen in the blink of an eye. Some cause minor injuries, while others can lead to more serious ones, such as herniated discs at the C4/C5 and C5/C6 vertebrae. This can cause significant pain and long-term disability.
If you or someone you know has suffered a herniated disc due to an accident, an experienced personal injury lawyer can help you recover compensation.
Understanding the Cervical Spine and Disc Herniations
The cervical spine consists of seven vertebrae labeled C1 through C7. These make up the neck portion of the spine and are responsible for supporting your head and providing a range of motion.
A herniated disc occurs when the soft, gel-like center of a spinal disc pushes through a crack in its outer shell. This can compress your spinal cord or nearby nerves and cause pain, numbness, or weakness, which may significantly impact your life. The C4/C5 and C5/C6 levels are particularly prone to injury because they provide mobility.
Common Causes of Herniated Discs at C4/C5 and C5/C6
Several types of accidents can cause herniated discs at C4/C5 and C5/C6 levels. Some of the most common include:
1. Car Accidents
One of the most common causes of herniated discs is car accidents, including rear-end and head-on crashes. The sudden impact of a collision can cause your neck to snap forward and backward abruptly, which can put excessive pressure on your cervical spine and cause disc herniation at the C4/C5 or C5/C6 levels.
2. Slip and Fall Accidents
Slips and falls on wet floors, uneven sidewalks, or stairs can cause you to twist and land in ways that put stress on the cervical spine. A fall that seems minor may cause a herniated disc if your neck is bent or strained when you hit the ground.
3. Workplace Accidents
Workplace accidents involving heavy lifting or repetitive motions can increase your risk of herniated discs. Construction workers are particularly vulnerable to cervical spine injuries because of the physical nature of their work.
4. Bicycle Accidents
Bicycle accidents can cause severe neck injuries if you are thrown from your bike or collide with another vehicle or object. The impact from a fall or collision can cause your head and neck to move forcefully, leading to potential herniation.
Symptoms of Herniated Discs at C4/C5 and C5/C6
A herniated disc in the cervical spine can manifest differently depending on the severity and location of the injury.
Common symptoms include:
- Pain in the neck and shoulders
- Radiating pain down the arms and into the hands
- Numbness or tingling
- Muscle weakness
- Limited range of motion in the neck
See a doctor if you experience any symptoms of a herniated disc at the C4/C5 or C5/C6 levels after an accident. They can evaluate your condition and help you prevent further injury.
Diagnosing and Treating Herniated Discs
Seeking medical attention is important if you suspect a herniated disc after an accident. Diagnosis typically involves your doctor conducting a physical exam and requesting imaging tests, such as MRI or CT scans, to confirm the presence and location of a herniation.
Treatment options can vary based on the severity of the injury:
- Conservative treatment: This may include physical therapy, pain management, and anti-inflammatory medications. This may alleviate symptoms for many accident victims over time.
- Injections: Corticosteroid injections can reduce inflammation and provide temporary relief.
- Surgery: Surgical intervention, such as a discectomy or spinal fusion, may be necessary to alleviate pain and restore function in severe cases.
You may be entitled to compensation for the cost of treatment if someone else is responsible for your herniated discs.
Reach out to a Personal Injury Lawyer If You Suffered a Herniated Disc in an Accident
Herniated discs at C4/C5 or C5/C6 can have life-altering consequences, affecting your ability to work and enjoy daily activities. Understanding the common causes and symptoms can help you recognize the condition and seek prompt treatment.
If the herniation resulted from an accident due to someone else’s negligence, contact a Columbus personal injury attorney to discuss your rights. Schedule a free consultation today.
Contact the Columbus Personal Injury Lawyers at Mark Casto Personal Injury Law Firm Today
If you were injured in an accident in Columbus, GA, and need legal help, contact our Columbus personal injury lawyers at Mark Casto Personal Injury Law Firm to schedule a free case review today.
Mark Casto Personal Injury Law Firm
233 12th St #808, Columbus, GA 31901
(706) 940-4030