Contact Us
Contact our Glendale personal injury attorney at Klink Law, PLLC, for your free and confidential case evaluation following an injury to you or a family member.
Bulging Disc Compensation in Car Accident Cases
Our team of injury lawyers specializes in handling cases involving herniated discs and bulging discs in Arizona. Whether you reside in Arizona or not, this page aims to provide you with a better understanding of the potential compensation payout you may expect if you reach a settlement in your claim or lawsuit.
One aspect that often leads to confusion among lawyers, patients, and even doctors is the distinction between a bulging disc and a herniated disc. Luckily, Klink Law is here to help you through such a difficult time. Contact our office today for a free consultation and to learn more about how we can help.
What is a bulging disc in the neck after a car accident?
A common injury we frequently encounter after a car accident is a bulging disc in the neck. This occurs when the trauma from the crash causes a disc in the cervical spine to protrude or shift from its normal position between the vertebrae. The resulting ruptured disc can be painful, either due to the bulge itself or when it compresses and puts pressure on the surrounding nerve roots.
A spinal disc, also known as an intervertebral disc, serves as a flexible and stable “shock absorber” between the vertebrae in our spine. Made of cartilage, it acts as a cushion, preserving the spine’s flexibility.
The spinal cord, a bundle of nerves running along the length of the spine, transmits messages from the brain to different parts of the body. It resides within the spinal canal, which is protected by the interlocking vertebrae forming the spinal column.
Symptoms of A Bulging Disc After A Car Accident
If you are experiencing any of the following symptoms after being involved in a car accident, it is crucial to seek immediate medical attention as you may have a bulging disc in your neck.
- Pain in the neck
- Whiplash, immobility, inflammation, and restricted range of motion in the neck
- Pain in the shoulders
- Pain in the chest
- Pain in the arms
- Numbness in your arms and fingers
- Weakness in your arms and fingers
- Pain when moving
- Restricted range of motion
Diagnostic testing for a cervical bulging disc following a car accident
Pain is the primary symptom experienced by individuals who have a bulging disc in their neck following a car accident. However, it is unfortunate that most emergency rooms do not go beyond a basic neck X-ray when evaluating car accident victims who present with possible whiplash and neck pain.
While X-rays are useful for detecting fractures in the vertebrae, they cannot identify a ruptured disc. To accurately diagnose a disc injury such as a bulge, a CT scan or an MRI is necessary. In most cases, your doctor will perform a physical examination and likely request the aforementioned diagnostic imaging tests to formulate a diagnosis and recommend an appropriate treatment plan for this type of injury.
- X-rays
- CT Scans (Computerized Tomography)
- MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging)
- EMG (Electromyography)
- SPECT (Single-Photon Emission Computerized Tomography)
- Myelography
Treatment for a Bulging Disc Injury
Treatment for a bulging disc in the neck following a car accident typically starts with conservative methods and progresses to more aggressive and invasive approaches if pain and impairment persist or worsen.
This injury can also result in permanent damage to the surrounding nerves, so when conservative treatments like physical therapy have been exhausted, surgery may become a necessary option. There are various types of neck surgery available to address this injury, including:
- Fusion surgery – Fusing or joining two vertebrae to stop painful movement
- Discectomy surgery – Removing the bulging or damaged portion of a disc
- Laminectomy/Decompression – Removing the bone overlying the spinal canal to relieve nerve pressure
- Artificial disc implant – Implanting artificial discs in between the injured discs to provide stability and eliminate pain
Other treatment options may include:
- Pain medication
- Steroid injections
- Physical therapy
How Does a Bulging Disc Happen in a Car Accident?
A car accident can have a profound impact on the alignment of the vertebrae, leading to potential complications. The misalignment exerts pressure on the spine, compressing the inner portion of the disc, which may result in the disc bulging. If left untreated, this condition can impede daily activities and increase the risk of herniated or slipped discs.
After a car accident, it is crucial to undergo a comprehensive physical examination to thoroughly document all injuries. This comprehensive assessment will provide your lawyer with the necessary information to effectively represent your case.
What is the Difference Between a Bulging Disc and a Herniated Disc?
A bulging disc refers to an injury where disc material extends beyond the normal margins, encompassing at least 50% (although some sources argue even 25%) of the disc’s circumference. It primarily involves the outer layer of resilient cartilage.
In contrast, a herniated disc occurs when disc material protrudes beyond the limits of the disc space, covering less than 50% of the disc’s circumference.
While a bulge may not sound as severe as a herniation, it’s important to note that a bulging disc can potentially exert greater pressure on nerve roots or the spinal cord. Interestingly, insurance company defense lawyers and adjusters often exploit the distinction between the two. The irony lies in the fact that a bulging disc can sometimes have more significant implications than a herniated disc.
Have You Suffered A Bulging Disc In Your Neck After A Car Accident? We Can Help
If you’ve experienced a bulging disc in your neck following a car accident, reach out to Klink Law now for a complimentary consultation with one of our skilled car accident attorneys. There’s no cost or obligation. You can also visit our contact page or utilize the chat feature on our website.
Klink Law is the premier law firm in Arizona, specializing exclusively in assisting individuals who have been injured in auto accidents. With our expertise and track record of success, we are committed to providing the highest level of support for our clients.
Questions? We Can Help
Based out of Glendale, AZ Klink Law, PLLC focuses on Personal Injury Litigation, Licensing Board Defense, and General Civil Litigation. David Klink takes pride in the opportunity to personally serve his clients and he will take the time to explain the legal process and answer your questions.