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Spinal Discs and Annular Tears

Michael Agruss

Written and Reviewed by Michael Agruss

  • Managing Partner and Personal Injury Lawyer at 844SeeMike.
  • Over 20 years of experience in Personal Injury.
  • Graduated from the University of Illinois Chicago School of Law: Juris Doctor, 2004.

An “annular tear” is generally defined by the Laser Spine Institute as a rip or tear in the outer layer of an intervertebral disc in the spine. These discs serve as both cushions and shock absorbers and also provide support to the back and neck, and annular tears are commonly caused by abrupt trauma and repetitive motion. They may only require treatment when pain and other symptoms persist, typically when the damaged disc comes into contact with nearby nerve roots, while some annular tears heal on their own with virtually no pain or symptoms.

Although aging spinal discs become thinner and weaker from lost water content over time – known as “degenerative disc disease” – annular tears as new injuries can occur in auto accidents, and victims who have been in an accident due to someone else’s negligence deserve to be compensated for their pain and suffering, medical bills, and lost wages.

Annular tears commonly fall into one of three categories:

  • Concentric tears – These occur circumferentially between the layers of the annulus fibrosis (intervertebral disc) and usually accompany another injury.
  • Peripheral tears – These are commonly associated with a bone spur or traumatic injury and occur in the disc’s outer fibers, which may lead to further degeneration of the disc.
  • Radial tears – These begin at the disc’s center and pass through to its outer layer, which can cause the disc to herniate, in which its center nucleus leaks through the tear to the disc’s exterior.

If you or a loved one has suffered a back or neck injury in an accident, contact 844 See Mike for a free consultation. We are a Chicago-based injury law firm representing individuals (and their families) who have suffered an injury in an accident. We will handle your case quickly and advise you every step of the way, and we will not hesitate to go to trial for you.

Lastly, 844 See Mike is not paid attorneys’ fees unless we win your case. Our no-fee promise is that simple. You have nothing to risk when you hire us – only the opportunity to seek justice.

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