Chiropractor Malpractice
People often turn to chiropractors to diagnose, treat, and help prevent a variety of conditions and disorders that affect the back, neck, pelvis, and extremity joints. Someone might also visit a chiropractor to relieve back or neck pain after a car accident. There are numerous reasons people see chiropractors on a routine basis. These may include:
- Headaches or migraines
- Improved range of motion
- Pain, tingling, or numbness in an extremity
- Allergy relief
- Easier pregnancy and labor
- Relief from menstrual problems
A recent study revealed that many people believe that a chiropractic adjustment is better than physical therapy or the use of pharmaceuticals. Many also think that a visit to the chiropractor gives them faster relief and longer-lasting results. However, malpractice sometimes occurs when a patient does not receive the appropriate standard of care.
Common types of chiropractic malpractice include:
- Negligent Manipulation. This occurs when treatment creates a new injury or worsens an existing injury. This can result in neck pain, lower back pain, sciatica, nerve damage, pinched nerves, herniated discs, and fractured ribs or vertebrae.
- Failure to Diagnose. Sometimes a patient visits a chiropractor thinking that they have a minor problem, but it turns out to be far more serious and requires immediate attention. Like any other medical professional, a chiropractor has an obligation to provide the highest standard of care. If a chiropractor fails to diagnose or properly refer a patient, that negligence can result in a serious medical issue or fatality.
- Induced Stroke. Aggressive chiropractic manipulation of the neck can occasionally cause damage to one of the arteries that carries blood to the brain. Medical doctors do not always ask stroke victims if they had chiropractic manipulation, but it can be the cause of a stroke.
- Lack of Informed Consent. Not all chiropractic treatment is risk-free. When a chiropractor does not inform a patient of possible risks or complications of an adjustment, they may be liable for any injury that results. In fact, a chiropractor is obligated to advise a patient of all possible risks associated with treatment.
If you know someone that has experienced chiropractor malpractice, or has suffered an injury after a chiropractic visit, please call the skilled New Jersey medical malpractice lawyers at Eichen Crutchlow Zaslow, LLP at 732-777-0100, or contact us online for a free consultation. Our offices are centrally located in Red Bank, Toms River, and Edison, New Jersey, and we serve clients throughout the state.
Eichen Crutchlow Zaslow, LLP has purposely remained small in size, because it is important to us that we get to know our clients and their needs. Larger NJ injury firms may churn out case after case, but that’s not how we operate. Partners Barry Eichen, William Crutchlow, and Daryl Zaslow have created a firm with the resources to handle complex litigation, and a team that takes your case personally.
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