Are Chiropractors Subject to Malpractice Suits?

Properly licensed chiropractors are legally considered to be health care providers, just like medical doctors; and therefore are almost always subject to similar responsibilities.

Those individuals who have experienced a back or neck injury as a result of a car accident may have been encouraged to visit a skilled chiropractor. In many cases,  chiropractic patients suggest their treatment was beneficial in addressing their pain. Although, there are rare instances where an individual will claim their pain was exacerbated as a result of their visit.

Some patients sustain injuries during their treatment without knowing it. Chiropractic care often involves realigning the spine; which is performed through a series of body manipulations involving relatively obscure positions. This fundamental characteristic of chiropractic treatment subjects the patient to potential injury or misdiagnosis during treatment.

Several individuals rightfully seek the care of chiropractors following a car accident, slip and fall, or other injury inducing accident. Some even seek the aid of a chiropractor as a means of preventing injury. Even though some Chiropractors are not MDs, they do share some common expectations; when the treatment produces adverse effects, chiropractors may be held responsible. For example, there have been reported instances of treatment resulting in herniated discs, torn muscles or tendons, and spinal injuries. When the injuries are a result of malpractice, the chiropractor may be responsible for damages.

Before undergoing treatment, your chiropractor is required to explain the risks associated with the treatment. The chiropractor should discuss all possible side effects that may occur as a result of your treatment. In situations where a claim regarding malpractice is made, a history of medical records prior to, and post treatment, may be utilized. Enlisting in treatment as a solution to your current injury should not result in additional injury. Personal injury lawyers exist to provide aid in these types of negligent affairs. They are trained to help clarify what constitutes as an injury and may be able to determine whether or not your claim bears merit.  

Contact a personal injury lawyer if you have sustained knee injury due to adverse chiropractic treatment and avoid knee replacement Rockville, MD (+500). A local personal injury lawyer should be familiar with the state’s laws regarding chiropractic malpractice. Your lawyer will ask you to recount the incident and may be able to determine whether or not the case is worth pursuing. If it was determined that the chiropractor’s negligence was responsible for your injuries, they may be accountable for expenses to cover following treatment as well as possible emotional damages associated with the injury.

Thanks to authors at Pain & Arthritis Center for their insight into Chiropractic Care.