A prolapsed disc (also known as a slipped disc or a herniated disc) is a potentially serious condition that can cause pain on one side of the body, which will intensify over time. It may also lead to muscle spasms or, in a worst case scenario, paralysis. Therefore, it is important that you see your doctor as soon as possible if you think you have a prolapsed disc so that you can be put on an appropriate treatment plan.
David Adams
David Adams
“If you're involved in a road traffic accident, make sure you contact your GP. If you are injured, if you're in pain, if you've got the option of going to the hospital, you ought to do that. This can ensure that we have a record of what happened.”
How do prolapsed discs occur?
The spine, from the neck down to the lower back, consists of small bones called vertebrae. Between these are intervertebral discs, which act as shock absorbers. Each disc has a tough outer shell (annulus fibrosus) and a soft interior (nucleus pulposus), giving flexibility and cushioning to the spine.
When strong forces impact the spine, such as in a car crash, these discs may rupture. This allows the gel-like nucleus pulposus to bulge outward, pressing on nerve endings and causing back or leg pain.
What are the symptoms of a prolapsed disc?
- Tingling, numbness (paraesthesia)
- Muscle weakness.
The severity and location of symptoms depend on the size of the prolapse and where it occurs in the spine. Severe pressure on the spinal nerves can even cause permanent damage or paralysis.
Can road accidents cause prolapsed discs?
There is some controversy as to whether the forces involved in a road traffic accident could cause an entirely healthy disc to prolapse. There is no doubt, however, that if there already is a weakness in a disc, possibly caused by gradual everyday degeneration, then the forces involved in a road traffic accident can be enough to cause the disc to prolapse at the weak spot.
Depending on the force of impact, the lasting effects of the road traffic accident can, in terms of daily living and employment, be very severe indeed.
What is the recovery period for a prolapsed disc?
Many people who have suffered a prolapsed disc will be able to make a recovery in about four to six weeks with the right treatment.
This will be likely to include a light exercise routine, designed to keep the patient active while taking the strain off their affected joints, and possibly some medication to help alleviate the pain. However, when the damage is extreme, surgery may be the only option. The option of surgery can bring its own complications and lead to a longer rehabilitation period, causing further disruption to the sufferer's life.
How can Thompsons Solicitors help with recovery?
If either you or a loved one have been involved in a car accident that has caused a prolapsed disc or any other common road accident injury, even if you are unsure whether you would be able to claim compensation, contact our No Win No Fee lawyers today on 0800 0891 331 or complete our compensation claim form. We will investigate on your behalf so that another person’s negligence does not continue to affect your quality of life.
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