Ross Mann Personal Injury Lawyers | February 12, 2026 | Personal Injury
A serious accident can leave you with more than bruises or sore muscles. Neck injuries are common after sudden trauma, and herniated discs at the C4/C5 or C5/C6 levels of the spine are among the most frequent. These injuries can cause lasting pain, limit your movement, and disrupt your daily life.
If you or a loved one is dealing with a herniated disc after an accident in Kentucky, understanding the injury is an important first step.
What Is a Herniated Disc in the Neck?
Your cervical spine is made up of seven small bones, labeled C1 through C7. Between each bone is a disc that acts like a cushion. These discs have a soft center and a tougher outer layer.
A herniated disc happens when the soft center pushes through the outer layer. When this occurs at C4/C5 or C5/C6, it can press on nearby nerves or the spinal cord. Even a small herniation can cause significant symptoms.
Why C4/C5 and C5/C6 Injuries Are So Common
The lower part of the neck handles a lot of movement. It supports the weight of your head and allows you to turn, bend, and look up or down. Because of this, the C4/C5 and C5/C6 levels are especially vulnerable during sudden impacts.
When your head snaps forward or backward, the force often concentrates in these areas. That is why doctors frequently diagnose herniated discs at these levels after traumatic incidents.
Accidents That Can Cause Herniated Discs
Many different accidents can lead to cervical disc injuries. Some of the most common include:
- Car and truck crashes, especially rear-end collisions
- Motorcycle accidents
- Slip and fall accidents
- Workplace incidents, such as falls from ladders or being struck by objects
- Sports and recreational injuries
- Pedestrian or bicycle accidents
You do not need to experience a high-speed crash for a herniated disc to occur. Even low-speed accidents can cause serious neck damage, particularly if your body was not prepared for the impact.
Common Symptoms To Watch For
Symptoms of a herniated disc in the neck may not appear right away. In some cases, pain and stiffness worsen over days or even weeks. Common symptoms include:
- Neck pain or stiffness
- Pain that radiates into the shoulders, arms, or hands
- Numbness or tingling in the arms or fingers
- Muscle weakness in the arms or grip
- Headaches that start at the base of the skull
If the spinal cord is involved, symptoms can be more severe. Trouble with balance, coordination, or fine motor skills should always be taken seriously.
How Herniated Discs Are Diagnosed
After an accident, a doctor will usually start with a physical exam and a discussion of your symptoms. Imaging tests are often needed to confirm a herniated disc.
An MRI is the most common test because it shows soft tissues like discs and nerves. X-rays may be used to rule out fractures, while CT scans can provide additional detail in certain cases.
Treatment Options and Recovery
Treatment depends on the severity of the herniation and your symptoms. Many people start with conservative care, which may include rest, physical therapy, medication, or steroid injections.
In more serious cases, surgery may be recommended to relieve pressure on the nerves or spinal cord. Recovery can take weeks or months, and some people experience long-term limitations even after treatment.
Medical care is not just about relieving pain. Proper treatment can also document the extent of your injury, which can be important if your herniated disc was caused by someone else’s negligence.
Contact Ross Mann Personal Injury Lawyers for a Free Consultation With a Lexington Personal Injury Lawyer
Herniated discs at C4/C5 or C5/C6 can change your life in an instant. If your injury was caused by an accident in Kentucky, you do not have to face the aftermath alone. For more information, contact an experienced Lexington personal injury lawyer at Ross Mann Personal Injury Lawyers to schedule a free consultation today.
We proudly serve Fayette County and the surrounding areas.
Ross Mann Personal Injury Lawyers – Lexington
501 Darby Creek Rd UNIT 48
Lexington, KY 40509
(859) 413-3900
