A hernia is a serious medical condition that can lead to other medical complications. As such it’s not something to be taken lightly – as any hernia sufferer will tell you.
Technically speaking, a hernia occurs when part of one of your organs or the wall of your organ pushes out from the space (or cavity) in the body that is designed to contain it. Hernias can be either external (when the protruding organ part creates a lump on the exterior of your body) or internal (when the same protrusion is directed inwards into the interior of your body). Common type of this hernia are hiatus hernia and a diaphragmatic hernia – you may have heard of these before.
But how are hernias caused? Well sometimes they come about due to genetic factors. But in many cases, hernias occur because of workplace injury – and that’s where a valid personal injury claim may be made. As with all claims, it all depends on the circumstances and cause of the injury.
Heavy lifting in the workplace is a common cause of hernia injuries – with two main results:
Abdomen, stomach or groin – this is perhaps one of the most common types of hernia injury compensation claim. The problem usually develops through a weakness in the lower torso stretching down to the groin which is exacerbated by the strain and pressure of heavy lifting.
Spinal or spinal disc hernia – this is a hernia which affects the spinal discs in your lower spine and can cause significant pressure on the sciatic nerve leading to severe pain the lower back buttocks and legs. There’s also a hernia which affects the lumbar spine, which does not directly affect your discs.
There’s also the possibility of what’s called an incisional hernia which comes about as a result of medical negligence – more specifically, a wound caused in surgery that has not healed correctly or completely which may be down to clinical malpractice.
A double hernia is when two episodes of any of the above injuries occur at the same time. In other words, two organs or organ walls are protruding simultaneously.
Which brings us to the question of compensation. The fact is, like all personal injury claims, each case is assessed on its own merits. But there is a general guide for hernia injuries based on the severity of the injury, how well it heals and how much pain is suffered in the process.
- For a minor hernia which responds to treatment and shows no further symptoms you can expect to receive between £2,000 and £5,000.
- For a moderate hernia claim where the hernia may cause further pain after treatment, you may receive between £4,000 and £6,000
- For a serious hernia injury which results in continual pain – even after treatment – and might have a serious effect on your day-to-day work and life, you could receive up to £16,000.
In any event of this type, it’s worthwhile seeking the advice of a reliable personal injury lawyer. At Watermans, we offer straightforward legal advice relating to your particular injury. We take the hassle out of the legal process, so that you can concentrate on your recovery. Contact our team using the form below, or by calling us on 0131 555 7055.