Chiropractic care can effectively treat many conditions, but improper adjustments can cause significant harm. This post discusses a case where an aggressive spinal adjustment led to severe injury.
The Incident: A patient suffered a spinal injury due to an aggressive adjustment by a chiropractor. The injury necessitated surgery and extensive rehabilitation, significantly impacting the patient’s life. The patient experienced a herniated disc, which required a complex surgical procedure costing approximately $50,000, followed by six months of physical therapy totaling $20,000.
The Claim: The patient filed a malpractice claim, which was settled by the chiropractor’s malpractice insurance. The settlement covered medical bills, rehabilitation costs, and compensation for the patient’s pain and suffering, totaling $500,000. The insurer also covered the chiropractor’s legal defense costs, which were around $75,000.
Lessons Learned:
- Gentle Approach: Chiropractors should use the least force necessary to achieve therapeutic goals.
- Risk Assessment: Always assess the potential risks of aggressive techniques and consider alternative treatments.
- Documentation: Keep detailed records of patient assessments and treatments to support your practice in case of claims.
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