After a recent car accident, you want nothing more than to repair your car and get back to your routine. First, you must inventory all the harm you suffered in the collision. Could your muscle weakness and tingling indicate a herniated disc?
Mayo Clinic explains how health care providers diagnose herniated discs. Do not mistake a serious injury for something that may resolve itself in a few days.
Physical and neurological exam
During your physical exam, your doctor may check your back and ask you to lay down and move your limbs. Neurological exams for herniated discs involve gauging your ability to walk and feel light sensations, your reflexes and your muscle strength.
Imaging tests
If your medical history and a physical exam do not suffice to diagnose you, your physician may order imaging tests. A computerized tomography scan uses various X-rays to create an image of your spinal column and surrounding structures.
Rather than using standard X-rays to diagnose a herniated disc, medical professionals instead use them to rule out similar medical conditions, such as tumors, infections and spinal misalignments. Magnetic resonance imaging scans combine magnetic fields and radio waves to pinpoint the location of a herniated disc and affected nerves.
Nerve tests
During an electromyogram, your physician places a needle electrode in several muscles. The nerve test measures your muscle’s electrical activity. Nerve conduction study tests rely on electrodes on your skin to gauge muscle functioning and electrical nerve impulses.
You deserve to understand how a car accident affects your physical health. A thorough diagnosis helps you protect your legal rights.
