The Importance of Your Attorney Understanding Disc Injuries

Herniated discs, slipped discs, or protruding discs are all injuries to the spinal disc and may cause nerve root impingement which then causes symptoms such as pain, tingling, numbness, and possible radiating pain. Unfortunately, my clients often receive these types of injuries (disc injuries) in motor vehicle crashes and usually in the cervical region, meaning the neck. Due to the violent movement and trauma associated with motor vehicle crashes, these disc injuries frequently occur. Because I have had hundreds of clients with these injuries, I have made it my business to understand these injuries and treatment. I have taken depositions of many orthopedic surgeons and neurosurgeons relating to the issue. Due to that unique opportunity and because I know that I will have many more clients with similar issues, I work to stay abreast of the medical literature and new treatments for disc injuries.

One of the exciting areas of evolution in medicine is disc replacements. While not approved yet by the FDA and not covered by many health insurance plans, I have had several clients and known several people in the past years who have disc replacements rather than spinal fusions. What is exciting about this procedure is that it allows the person to continue to have mobility and flexibility in the spine that a spine fusion prohibits. When a fusion in the spine is done, the surgeon takes the disc out of your neck, replaces it with a cadaver bone or other synthetic material with a cage, and screws it into the two vertebrae; thus, the disc is gone, and as such all mobility in that portion of the spine. In a spinal fusion, the disc is removed, and the vertebra is fused together.

Disc replacement is a different procedure that allows the patient to keep the mobility of their spine by replacing the disc with a synthetic material rather than fusing the vertebra together. Of course, the true benefit here is that the client gets to keep their mobility, which is important, especially if you have an active hobby, are physically active, or have a career that requires physical activity. In the past, I have had several clients that opted for disc replacement rather than fusion. The difference in the quality of life is significant. Once you have a vertebra fusion, it cannot be unfused. So, if you have a disc injury and surgery is recommended, I would suggest that you weigh all options before choosing. Just as importantly, your attorney must understand the medical procedures and costs involved as it directly impacts the compensation that you will need.

Because we have so much experience in representing clients with disc injuries and other serious injuries, we have had the opportunity to be “schooled” by some of the best orthopedic surgeons and neurosurgeons on the procedures, risks, advantages, and recovery processes. Disc injuries are serious injuries that can change your life, so having it properly treated is critical for your quality of life. Only you and your doctor can determine the best course of treatment for your injury, and the role of your personal injury attorney is to be up to date on treatment and costs and how that will impact the compensation you deserve.

At The Cagle Law Firm, your best interest is our priority. We aggressively represent our clients so they receive the compensation they deserve for the treatment they need when another has injured them or another’s choice. As a victim of an auto accident, you and your family have the task of rehabilitation and recovery. I say your family because few people do it alone without help and support from friends and family. Truly, an injury of this nature is a life-changing event. We have been honored to work with clients through these difficult times in their lives, and we welcome the opportunity to help others receive fair and just compensation, whether through settlement or trial.

Our attorneys understand the days and weeks following a serious accident are confusing, difficult, and quite frightening. You should have a professional on your side to advocate for you and your family while you or your family member is injured and focused on recovery. Compensation may just mean your medical costs, or it may include lost wages or other damages.

At The Cagle Law Firm, we are available seven days a week, and we happily answer your questions and give you information, so you do not have to make those big decisions alone. Whether you call our firm or another personal injury attorney in Missouri or Illinois, do take advantage of free consultations so that you can make the best-informed decision. Call today at (314) 276-1681.