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Spine and Soft Tissue Injuries

FAQ

Back injuries Injuries to the spine and surrounding soft tissues are common following a motor vehicle accident or other traumatic event. Though these injuries can be quite painful, it can be difficult to describdescribe the source of your pain with particularity. Spinal anatomy is complicated and the terminology associated with back injuries can be confusing. Here we will answer some common questionquestions about spine and soft tissue injuries to help you communicate more effectively with your doctor and your personal injury lawyer.

What is a “soft tissue” injury?

A soft tissue injury is an injury to the soft tissues of the body – the muscles, ligaments and tendons. Ligaments are the strong, fibrous tissues that connect one bone to another; tendons are tissues that connect muscle to bone. When a ligament is stretched or torn, this is called a “sprain.” When a muscle or tendon is stretched or torn, this is called a “strain.” For example, “whiplash” is a common term for a neck sprain or strain. It results from an exaggerated stretching of the soft tissues of the neck.

What is a spinal disc?

A spinal disc (also called an “intervertebral disc”) is a flat, round or oval structure that sits between two spinal vertebrae (the bones of the spine). The discs serve as padding between the vertebrae and work like shock absorbers. Each disc has a tough outer membrane and a softer core.

What is a ”herniated” disc?

“Herniated disc” is a term used to describe a disc with an asymmetrical bulge. The bulge occurs when the disc core leaks outside the perimeter of the disc (think of the jelly oozing out of a jelly donut).

What is a ”bulging” disc?

The term “bulging” disc refers to a symmetrically expanded disc – that is, one in which the disc core material leaks around the entire circumference of the disc.

What is disc ”degeneration”?

Over time, a disc may degenerate and shrink (lose height), due in part to the natural process of aging. Although an auto accident or other traumatic event does nonot cause degeneration, a traumatic event can cause a disc herniation, which ultimately may result in degeneration.

What is a facet joint injury?

A joint is where two bones meet. The joints in the spine are called facet joints. The facet joints allow the bones of the spine to glide smoothly through a rangrange of motions. Injury to the facet joint will result in the joint becoming stiff, swollen, and tender.

How can a soft tissue injury cause nerve damage?

A soft tissue injury or spinal injury can result in permanent and painful nerve damage if swelling caused by the primary injury (e.g., a herniated or bulging disc) causes compcompression on the nerve.