Many Accidents Can Cause Herniated Discs at C4/C5 or C5/C6. Here’s What You Need to Know.
Herniated discs in the cervical spine at the C4/C5 or C5/C6 levels can cause serious pain that impacts your quality of life. Unfortunately, many accidents can cause herniated discs at C4/C5 or C5/C6. If somebody else’s negligence caused your accident and herniated disc, you may have a legal right to compensation.
What Is a Herniated Disc at C4/C5 or C5/C6?
A herniated disc, or bulging disc in the neck, occurs when the soft, gel-like center of a spinal disc in your back pushes through a tear in the tougher outer layer. This causes the disc to press on nearby nerves. Symptoms of spinal cord compression include pain, numbness, and other neurological symptoms that radiate throughout your shoulders, arms, and hands. The C4/C5 and C5/C6 levels of your spine refer to specific segments in the neck.
What Accidents Cause 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:
Car Accidents
The sudden impact of a car accident can force your neck to move unnaturally, causing a herniated disc. Rear-end collisions are a frequent cause because whiplash can place excessive stress on your cervical spine.
Slip and Fall Accidents
Falling and landing awkwardly can result in a herniated disc. Slip and fall accidents are particularly dangerous when they involve stairs, uneven surfaces, or wet floors, which increase the risk of falling and sustaining an impact on your neck.
Workplace Accidents
Repetitive strain, heavy lifting, or traumatic incidents in the workplace can lead to herniated discs. Jobs that require physical labor or awkward neck postures are especially high-risk. Construction workers are particularly vulnerable to workplace accidents involving cervical spine injuries.
Bicycle Accidents
Falls or collisions involving bicycles can exert significant force on your neck and spine, causing herniated discs. Cyclists involved in bicycle accidents are particularly vulnerable to herniated discs when they are struck by vehicles or involved in high-speed crashes.
What Are Symptoms of Herniated Discs at C4/C5 and C5/C6?
A herniated disc in the cervical spine at C4/C5 and C5/C6 can manifest differently depending on the severity of your accident.
Common symptoms include:
- Persistent or sharp pain in your neck that worsens with movement.
- Radiating pain that travels from the neck to your shoulders, arms, or hands.
- Numbness, tingling, or a “pins and needles” sensation in your arms or hands
- Weakness and difficulty lifting or gripping objects due to reduced strength in your arms or hands
- Frequent headaches originating from the neck area.
You should see a doctor immediately if you begin to experience any of these symptoms of a herniated disc after an accident. A doctor can evaluate your condition and determine what diagnostic testing and treatment options may be necessary. Pain is one of the long-term effects of a herniated disc in the neck, so act quickly.
How Do Doctors Diagnose and Treat Herniated Discs?
Diagnosing a herniated disc typically involves reviewing your medical history and performing physical exams and imaging tests such as X-rays, MRIs, or CT scans.
Your doctor may then suggest different treatment options, including:
- Non-surgical treatments: Physical therapy, pain medications, anti-inflammatory drugs, or even steroid injections may be used to relieve your symptoms.
- Surgical Treatments: Discectomy or spinal fusion surgeries may be used to alleviate pressure on the nerves.
The treatment options recommended for your herniated disc will depend on the extent of your injury. If someone else’s negligence caused your herniated disc, you may be entitled to compensation for the costs of diagnosis and treatment. A Jacksonville personal injury lawyer can help.
Suffering a Herniated Disc at C4/C5 or C5/C6? Speak with a Jacksonville Personal Injury Lawyer
Suppose your herniated disc was caused by someone else’s negligence in a car accident, workplace accident, or other incident. In that case, you may be entitled to compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. A Jacksonville personal injury lawyer can help you secure compensation for all your injuries. Schedule a free consultation today to discuss your case.
Contact the Jacksonville Personal Injury Law Firm of Baggett Law Personal Injury Lawyers Today For Help
For more information, please contact the Jacksonville and Ponte Vedra personal injury law firm of Baggett Law Personal Injury Lawyers at the nearest location to schedule a free consultation today.
We serve Duval County, St. Johns County, and its surrounding areas:
Baggett Law Personal Injury Lawyers – Jacksonville
9471 Baymeadows Rd #105,
Jacksonville, FL 32256
(904) 396-1100
Baggett Law Personal Injury Lawyers – Downtown Jacksonville
121 W Forsyth St Suite 1000,
Jacksonville, FL 32202
(904) 822-4225
Baggett Law Personal Injury Lawyers – Ponte Vedra
480 Town Plaza Ave #130,
Ponte Vedra Beach, FL 32081
(904) 675-1167