While any injury to the spine can be serious or life-altering, damage to the cervical spine, which is situated in the neck, is particularly concerning. A herniation in this part of the spine occurs when disc material pushes out of its normal space and compresses nearby nerves.
Here’s a brief overview of cervical herniated disc injuries, including potential causes, symptoms, and your legal options if you suffered an injury from someone else’s negligence.
What Is a Cervical Herniated Disc Injury?
A herniated disc is an injury where the jelly-like material inside a spinal disc is squeezed out of the surrounding membrane. When the injury affects the discs in the cervical spine (known as C1–C7), it’s classified as a cervical herniated disc. The condition primarily affects the discs at C4-C5 or C5-C6.
You could suffer this type of injury suddenly after a forceful impact or gradually through disc degeneration or general wear and tear. The amount of pain you experience can range from mild to debilitating.
What Are Common Causes of Cervical Herniated Disc Injuries in Rockford, IL?
Most cervical herniated disc injuries often result from forces great enough to cause the disc’s inner material to leak or bulge out. Traumatic events, including car and truck accidents, are among the primary triggers. During these events, a victim’s neck could be exposed to rapid acceleration or jarring.
Other possible causes include:
- Slips and falls that force the neck into extreme extension or flexion
- Repetitive strain from physical jobs
- Age-related disc degeneration
- Heavy lifting without proper posture
You may be at an increased risk of herniation as you age and your discs naturally lose their elasticity.
What Are Symptoms You Should Never Ignore After a Cervical Herniated Disc Injury?
The symptoms of a herniated cervical disc vary based on the location and severity of the herniation. You might feel only mild stiffness and discomfort in your neck.
However, if the injury is more serious, your symptoms may include:
- Sharp or burning pain
- Tingling, numbness, or weakness in the shoulders, arms, or hands
- Pain that worsens with movement
- Reduced range of motion
- Headaches originating from the base of the skull
If the nerve compression gets worse, your symptoms could radiate into your chest or upper back.
How Are Cervical Herniated Disc Injuries Diagnosed?
Your medical provider may use a combination of methods to diagnose your herniated disc. A physical exam is typically the first step, followed by imaging and neurological screening. MRI is a commonly employed tool because it shows soft tissues, inflammation, and nerve compression.
What Are Common Treatment Options?
Most patients begin with conservative care, but your treatment plan might include one or more of the following:
- Physical therapy
- Anti-inflammatory medications
- Heat and cold therapy
- Cervical traction
- Epidural steroid injections
Surgery is generally reserved for severe cases, such as when nerve compression affects strength or mobility. Your doctor may recommend a disc replacement, spinal fusion, or other surgical interventions.
Contact the Rockford Personal Injury Attorneys at Zayed Law Offices Personal Injury Attorneys for Help Today
If a negligent driver, property owner, or employer caused your cervical herniated disc, you may be entitled to compensation for medical care, lost income, and pain and suffering. Our Rockford personal injury lawyers know how to document spine injuries, work with treating physicians, and build the evidence insurers and juries expect to see.
Zayed Law Offices Personal Injury Attorneys has the resources to investigate quickly and negotiate from a position of strength. Let us handle the calls, paperwork, and deadlines while you focus on recovery. Contact us today for a free consultation—speak with our skilled legal team, get clear next steps, and put an advocate on your side now.
We proudly serve Cook County, Will County, Kendall County, and their surrounding areas:
Zayed Law Offices Personal Injury Attorneys – Chicago Office
10 S La Salle St STE 1230, Chicago, IL 60603
Phone:(312) 726-1616
Hours: Open 24/7
Our firm is located near you. We have an office in Chicago
Find us with our GeoCoordinates: 41.8815493,-87.6327515
Zayed Law Offices Personal Injury Attorneys – Joliet Office
195 Springfield Ave, Joliet, IL 60435
Phone: (815) 726-1616
Our firm is located near you. We have an office in Joliet
Find us with our GeoCoordinates: 41.5254295,-88.1381011
Zayed Law Offices Personal Injury Attorneys – Rockford Office
318 N 1st St, Rockford, IL 61107
Phone:(815) 662-0330
Hours: Open 24/7
