Intervertebral disks are the disks in between the bones (vertebrae)of a person’s spine. They act as a cushioning device in the spine and allow movement in different directions, such as bending, twisting and turning.
Problems occur when the material inside of these intervertebral disks, which are part of the central nervous system, breaks through to the outside and places pressure on the nerves, neural foramina or spinal cord. Because the spaces between these disks are so tight, it does not take much movement to create pressure on the aforementioned areas resulting in pain.
This type of injury can happen anywhere in the spine from the neck all the way down to the lower back. Such injuries can cause pain and numbness in the area of the herniation as well as in the extremities, including the arms, hands, legs or feet.
Often these injuries may result in a need for major surgery months or even years following the accident. Any delay in receiving surgery can heighten these symptoms over time. Victims should explore all medical options before opting for surgery and should be aware of the financial expense associated, including the actual surgical costs and the necessity to miss large blocks of time from work.
Many of these herniated disk surgical interventions are extremely intrusive and can require long recovery periods. The cost of therapy, diagnostic studies, medical consultations, and surgical and pain management intervention can be costly and may be required for the rest of someone’s life. Just the cost leading up to surgery can exceed $100,000, which does not take into account any medical care costs following surgery. Herniated disk injuries can massively affect someone’s life in the ability to do basic day-to-day activities and will usually impede that person’s everyday activities and routines permanently.
If you or someone you know has a herniated disk related to an auto or motorcycle accident, or other type of accident, please call Chris Ligori & Associates at (813) 223-2929 for a free consultation.