25 cases with traumatic lumbar and cervical disc herniation are described and criteria for a causal connection between trauma and prolapse are discussed: 1. The accident must be adequate, e.g. jumps from considerable height, falls, car collisions and lifting heavy weights (only in private insurance companies). 2. Typical discopathic complaints must occur soon after the accident. 3. Major degenerative disease before trauma of the vertebral column must be excluded. The medical expert has to assess in each case of possible traumatic disc herniation the cause of trauma and the resulting reduction of earning capacity.