Minneapolis Herniated Discs Attorney

Back pain is one of the most commonly cited medical problems. In fact, about 8 in 10 Americans report experiencing back pain at some point in their lives. Back pain has a variety of causes and can present in a number of ways. It may be acute or chronic, dull or sharp. One of the most serious underlying causes of back pain is the result of a herniated disc.

What is a Herniated Disc?

Your back is a complex system of bones, ligaments, tendons, and muscles. When something compromises this delicate system, it can lead to painful medical afflictions. Some of them involve the cartilage discs in your back.

A herniated disc occurs when an interior structure of the disc pokes through the tougher exterior. reaching the spinal column. Doctors may also refer to this as a slipped disc or ruptured disc. Your spine is filled with an intricate system of nerves, which, when stimulated, create the perception of pain. Nerve irritation from a herniated disc can lead to intense, continuous pain, as well as numbness and tingling into the arms and legs. In some cases, a herniated disc can lead to a condition called sciatica, where pain runs along the sciatic nerve (from the lower back to the lower legs).

The herniated disc pain is serious and can hinder your quality of life. Because it’s so severe, it’s one of the most common reasons Americans seek long-term disability benefits (LTD).

How Can I Get Long-Term Disability Benefits?

Whether you’ve experienced a herniated disc on the job or in an accident, you may be eligible for LTD benefits. If you have an LTD insurer, your best chance at receiving benefits will be providing adequate documentation about your condition. There are several ways to demonstrate to your insurer that your pain keeps you from work:

• Get a diagnosis and treatment. An official medical record is essential for your claim. If possible, request medical imaging to confirm your diagnosis (such as a CT or MRI). It’s equally important to follow your doctor’s orders. Insurers are much quicker to deny a claim if they think you’ve been non-compliant.
• Ask for specialist documentation. Healthcare providers are accustomed to providing evidence for an LTD claim. Ask them to fill out a document called a Residual Functional Capacity form. This will detail the extent of your limitations and how your condition impedes everyday functioning.
• Get character statements. It’s also a good idea to submit statements from friends, coworkers, and families describing your physical limitations. If you are successful in receiving Social Security or workers’ compensation disability benefits, attach those decisions to your application, as well.

What If I Don’t Have an LTD Insurer?

If you don’t have long-term disability, you may still be able to file a personal injury lawsuit in Minneapolis to compensate for your injuries. If another person was at fault for your injuries, we may be able to pursue a claim that provides compensation for:

• Lost wages
• Medical bills
• Continued rehabilitation expenses
• Loss in earning capacity
• Intangible losses such as pain and mental anguish

Hiring an Attorney in Minneapolis

Being a victim of any injury can be debilitating, but a herniated disc causes constant life-changing pain. Whether you’re seeking compensation from an LTD insurer, Social Security, workers’ compensation, or a third party, we can help. In our 25 years of practice, we have tried and settled over 2,000 personal injury cases. We’d like to put that experience to work for you. To get on the road to recovery and financial security, contact us for a free initial consultation.