There are seven bones, known as vertebrae, in the cervical spine. These vertebrae are separated from one another by discs, which have tough exteriors and soft inner cores. These discs allow you to move freely and also act as shock absorbers to protect the bones in your cervical spine. There’s no doubt that cervical discs are important to your overall health and wellbeing, which is why a cervical disc injury is so devastating. Here’s what you should know about these serious injuries:
Causes of Cervical Disc Injuries
Some cervical disc injuries occur as a result of normal wear and tear. The discs start to lose water as you age, which weakens them and puts you at a greater risk of sustaining a cervical disc injury.
Sudden jarring movements can also cause disc injuries, which is why many traffic accident victims sustain this type of injury. Slip and fall victims often sustain disc injuries, too. Your body may twist and turn rapidly during a fall, and these sudden movements can damage the discs in your cervical spine.
How to Spot A Cervical Disc Injury
Each cervical disc injury is unique, but some of the most common symptoms include:
- Numbness or tingling sensation in the neck, arm, or shoulder
- Sharp, stabbing pain in the neck that may or may not shoot down one arm
- Muscle weakness
- Muscle spasms
- Pain when turning or moving your neck
It’s important to seek medical attention as soon as possible if you think you have a cervical disc injury.
How Are Cervical Disc Injuries Treated?
You will need to get plenty of rest in order to give your injury plenty of time to heal. Your doctor may also suggest taking over-the-counter pain relief and anti-inflammatory medications to reduce swelling and alleviate pain. If you are still experiencing pain, your doctor may recommend a steroid injection. This injection should provide a great deal of relief.
Physical therapy is also recommended for people with cervical disc injuries. A therapist can customize a program that is designed to strengthen the muscles in your neck, back, and shoulders. This program will most likely include a lot of stretching to improve your flexibility and range of motion.
Fortunately, surgery is typically not needed to treat these disc injuries. But, it may be necessary in severe cases where other treatment options have not been effective.
Have you suffered a cervical disc injury? If so, contact attorney Martin Gasparian as soon as possible. Mr. Gasparian will work tirelessly to hold the negligent party accountable for your devastating injuries. Schedule a free consultation regarding your case by calling 559-203-3333 or submitting your information at MaisonLaw.com.
