A herniated disc is one of the most common workplace back injuries, yet it’s also one of the most misunderstood.

For some people, the injury begins with a single event, lifting a heavy object, slipping on a wet floor, or falling from a ladder. For others, it develops gradually after months or years of repetitive bending, twisting, pushing, or lifting on the job.

Regardless of how it occurs, a herniated disc can make even the simplest daily activities painful. Sitting, standing, walking, sleeping, or returning to work may suddenly become difficult.

If your injury happened while performing your job, you may be entitled to workers’ compensation benefits under Missouri law.

Understanding your rights, the medical treatment available, and how the workers’ compensation process works can help you make informed decisions during your recovery.

What Is a Herniated Disc?

Your spine is made up of bones called vertebrae. Between each vertebra sits a soft, rubbery disc that acts as a cushion and absorbs shock as you move.

A herniated disc occurs when the outer layer of one of these discs tears or weakens, allowing the soft center to push outward. When that material presses against nearby nerves, it can cause significant pain and other symptoms.

Although people sometimes refer to this injury as a “slipped disc,” the disc doesn’t actually slip. Instead, the inner material pushes through a weakened portion of the disc.

Herniated discs most commonly occur in the lower back (lumbar spine), though they can also develop in the neck (cervical spine).

Common Causes of Workplace Herniated Discs

A herniated disc can happen in nearly any profession, but certain jobs place workers at greater risk.

Common causes include:

• Heavy lifting
• Repetitive lifting
• Frequent bending and twisting
• Falls from ladders or scaffolding
• Slip and fall accidents
• Motor vehicle accidents while working
• Pushing or pulling heavy equipment
• Repetitive motion over time

Workers in construction, manufacturing, healthcare, warehousing, transportation, agriculture, and nursing often experience these types of injuries, but office workers can also develop disc injuries from repetitive stress or poor ergonomics.

Symptoms of a Herniated Disc

Symptoms vary depending on the location and severity of the injury.

Common symptoms include:

• Lower back pain
• Pain radiating into the hip or leg
• Numbness
• Tingling
• Muscle weakness
• Difficulty standing or walking
• Pain that worsens with sitting
• Reduced range of motion

Some workers continue experiencing symptoms long after the initial injury, particularly if the herniated disc compresses a nerve.

How Is a Herniated Disc Diagnosed?

Your physician may begin with a physical examination to evaluate your range of motion, strength, reflexes, and areas of pain.

Additional testing may include:

• MRI
• CT Scan
• X-rays (to rule out fractures)
• EMG or nerve conduction studies

An MRI is often one of the most useful diagnostic tools because it allows physicians to see the spinal discs and determine whether nerves are being compressed.

Treatment Options

Treatment depends on the severity of the injury.

Many workers improve with conservative treatment, while others require surgery.

Treatment may include:

• Rest
• Anti-inflammatory medications
• Physical therapy
• Epidural steroid injections
• Chiropractic care (when authorized)
• Pain management
• Surgery, including discectomy or spinal fusion in severe cases

Recovery timelines vary considerably from person to person.

Can You Receive Workers’ Compensation Benefits?

If your herniated disc occurred while performing your job duties, Missouri workers’ compensation may provide benefits such as:

• Medical treatment
• Temporary Total Disability (TTD)
• Permanent Partial Disability (PPD)
• Mileage reimbursement
• Compensation for permanent impairment

Every claim is different, and eligibility depends on the specific facts surrounding your injury.

What If You Already Had Degenerative Disc Disease?

This is one of the questions injured workers ask most often.

Many adults have some degree of spinal degeneration as they age.

Having a pre-existing condition doesn’t automatically prevent you from receiving workers’ compensation benefits.

If your work activities significantly aggravated or accelerated your condition, you may still qualify for benefits under Missouri law.

Medical evidence often plays an important role in establishing that connection.

Can You Return to Work?

Some workers return within weeks.

Others require surgery and months of rehabilitation.

Your physician may recommend:

• Light-duty work
• Temporary restrictions
• Permanent lifting restrictions
• A gradual return to work

It’s important to follow your doctor’s recommendations and avoid returning to work before you’re medically ready.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I receive workers’ compensation if my herniated disc developed over time?

Yes. Not every workplace injury happens in a single accident. Repetitive work activities can also contribute to a compensable injury.

Will I need surgery?

Not necessarily. Many herniated discs improve with conservative treatment, while others require surgical intervention.

Can I choose my own doctor?

In Missouri, the employer or its workers’ compensation insurance carrier generally has the right to select the authorized treating physician.

How long does recovery take?

Recovery varies depending on the severity of the injury, the treatment required, and your overall health.

Wondering what happens after your doctor says you’ve reached Maximum Medical Improvement (MMI)?

Learn what MMI means, how it affects your workers’ compensation benefits, and why it can play a major role in determining the value of your claim in our guide: “What Is Maximum Medical Improvement (MMI) in Missouri Workers’ Compensation?”

The Hines & Wilson Law Firm Is Here to Help

A herniated disc can affect every aspect of your life, from your ability to work to your quality of life at home.

If you’ve suffered a work-related back injury, you don’t have to navigate Missouri’s workers’ compensation system alone.

For decades, The Hines & Wilson Law Firm has helped injured workers throughout Missouri understand their rights, obtain medical treatment, and pursue the workers’ compensation benefits they deserve.

If you’ve been diagnosed with a herniated disc after a workplace injury, contact our office to learn how we can help.