A herniated disc is a spinal injury that happens when the soft, gel-like center of a disc pushes through a tear in its tougher outer layer. Discs sit between the vertebrae and help absorb shock when you move. When damaged, it can irritate nearby nerves, leading to pain, numbness, or weakness that can make everyday activities much harder.
You may also hear a herniated disc called a “slipped disc” or “ruptured disc,” even though the disc typically does not slip out of place. Herniated discs can occur anywhere along the spine, but they most often affect the lower back (lumbar spine) or neck (cervical spine).
Types of Herniated Discs
Herniated discs are usually described by where they occur.
Lumbar Herniated Disc
A lumbar herniated disc affects the lower back and is the most common type of herniated disc. It may press on the sciatic nerve, causing pain that travels down the buttock and into the leg. Many people refer to this radiating pain as sciatica.
Cervical Herniated Disc
A cervical herniated disc occurs in the neck. Symptoms can radiate into the shoulder, arm, or hand. Some people also notice headaches or weakness when gripping or lifting.
Thoracic Herniated Disc
Thoracic herniated discs occur in the upper or middle back and are less common. When they do occur, they can cause pain, numbness, or tingling that wraps around the rib cage or torso.
What Are the Signs and Symptoms of a Herniated Disc?
Symptoms depend on the disc’s location and how much it affects nearby nerves. Some people have a herniated disc and don’t notice symptoms right away. For others, pain can begin suddenly, especially after a fall or collision.
Common symptoms include:
- Sharp, burning, or aching pain in the back or neck
- Pain that radiates into an arm or leg
- Numbness or tingling in the hands, arms, feet, or legs
- Muscle weakness
- Pain that worsens with bending, twisting, coughing, or sneezing
Some people also notice symptoms that are easy to overlook, such as increased pain after long car rides, difficulty getting comfortable at night, or a feeling that one leg or arm “gives out” more easily than it used to. If symptoms are severe or getting worse, it is important to seek medical attention. Certain symptoms may require urgent medical care.
What Are the Long-Term Consequences of a Herniated Disc?
Many people improve with conservative care, such as physical therapy, medication, and activity changes. Still, a herniated disc can be more than a short-term setback. Some individuals deal with lingering pain, reduced mobility, or symptoms that flare up over time.
Possible long-term effects include:
- Chronic back or neck pain
- Ongoing nerve irritation or numbness
- Weakness that makes work or daily tasks difficult
- Reduced range of motion
- Permanent nerve damage in severe cases
In rare situations, a serious condition called cauda equina syndrome can occur. It may involve major weakness or problems with bladder or bowel control. This is a medical emergency and typically requires immediate treatment.
What Causes Herniated Discs?
Herniated discs can develop over time due to disc degeneration. As discs age, they lose water content, become less flexible, and are more likely to tear. However, a disc can also herniate suddenly after trauma.
Common causes include:
- Car accidents
- Truck accidents
- Slip and fall accidents
- Workplace lifting injuries
- Repetitive strain over time
- Sudden twisting, bending, or heavy lifting
In many personal injury cases, the key issue is whether an accident caused a new injury or worsened a pre-existing condition. That distinction often matters in insurance claims.
How Are Herniated Discs Diagnosed and Treated?
A doctor will typically start with a physical exam and a conversation about your symptoms, including when they began and what makes them worse or better. Imaging, such as an MRI, is often used to confirm a herniation and show whether nerves are affected.
Treatment depends on the severity of the symptoms and how well they respond to early care. Non-surgical options may include:
- Anti-inflammatory medication
- Physical therapy
- Steroid injections
- Guided rest and activity modifications
If pain and weakness persist, or if nerve compression is severe, surgery may be recommended. Procedures like a discectomy can relieve pressure on the nerve. Some cases may involve spinal fusion or other techniques, depending on the injury.
Recovery timelines vary. Some people return to normal routines in weeks, while others need longer-term rehabilitation and follow-up care.
Contact the Fairfax Personal Injury Lawyers at The Parrish Car Accident & Personal Injury Law Firm for a Complimentary Consultation
A herniated disc can change your life quickly, whether it happened in a crash, a fall, or another sudden incident. If you are dealing with persistent pain, time away from work, and unanswered questions from an insurer, getting support can make the process less overwhelming.
The Parrish Car Accident & Personal Injury Law Firm represents Virginians with serious injuries, including spinal and back injuries. Contact our Fairfax personal injury lawyers at (571) 200-5424 today to schedule a free consultation.
