Our blog on Herniated Disc Settlement in Wisconsin will focus on workers compensation low back injuries resulting in a herniated intervertebral disc, often involving surgery and permanent work restrictions. We also have extensive experience with neck or cervical disc injuries from both motor vehicle accidents and workplace injuries.
Although people often refer to a disc herniation as a slipped disc, the disc doesn’t actually slip out of place. Rather, the term herniation means that the material at the center of the disc has squeezed out of its normal space. Our typical client is between 50 and 70 years old, although we have seen younger people who have experienced a severe traumatic injury.
This blog will help understand how the problem develops, how doctors diagnose the condition, and what treatment options are available, all which we consider in obtaining the largest settlements for our clients with lumbar disc herniations.
Anatomy
What parts of the spine are involved? The human spine is formed by 24 spinal bones, called vertebrae. Vertebrae are stacked on top of one another to form the spinal column. The spinal column gives the body its form. It is the body’s main upright support. The section of the spine in the lower back is known as the lumbar spine.
The lumbar spine is made up of the lower five vertebrae. Doctors often refer to these vertebrae as L1 to L5. These five vertebrae line up to give the low back a slight inward curve. The lowest vertebra of the lumbar spine, L5, connects to the top of the sacrum, a triangular bone at the base of the spine that fits between the two pelvic bones.
Intervertebral discs separate the vertebrae. The discs are made of connective tissue. Connective tissue is the material that holds the living cells of the body together. Most connective tissue is made of fibers of a material called collagen. These fibers help the disc withstand tension and pressure.
A disc is made of two parts. The center, called the nucleus, is spongy. It provides most of the disc’s ability to absorb shock. The nucleus is held in place by the annulus, a series of strong ligament rings surrounding it. Ligaments are connective tissues that attach bones to other bones.
Healthy discs work like shock absorbers to cushion the spine. They protect the spine against the daily pull of gravity. They also protect it during strenuous activities that put strong force on the spine, such as jumping, running, and lifting.
McCormick Law Office attorneys in Milwaukee, Wisconsin are the back injury attorneys. When someone needs a herniated disc settlement in Wisconsin for permanent disability, they call McCormick 272-3636.
