In this newsletter for personal injury attorneys, we strive to present sound medical information that has been used in previous cases for accident and injury victims. Provided by chiropractors and medically trained professionals, it can help legal counsels in their efforts to establish grounds for compensation for their clients.

Strain/sprains can be permanent. There are 3 grades of sprain/strain: Grade 1: Overstretching of the ligament that is a transient condition that resolves.

Grade 2: Partial tearing of the ligament that does not heal, it wound repairs, with internal scar tissue called adhesions. This is a permanent change in tissue structure and leaves the joint unstable.

Grade 3: This is a complete tear of the ligament and can require surgery. This leaves the joint very unstable, that over time will fill in with adhesions. This, too, is a permanent scenario.

Doctors are not given the choice of choosing which type of strain/sprain in their diagnosis, as the coding guidelines only gives the doctor 1 choice. When confronted with a diagnosis from a doctor with strain/sprain, do not assume that it is a grade 1.

Ask the doctor to clarify which grade the client has to determine if it is a permanent condition or not. These can happen in any joint of the body including the spine and all extremities.

The goal at DCOA is to contain and control Degenerative Disc Disease. Results vary patient to patient based on age, lifestyle, genetics, etc. Spinal Decompression treatment is designed to bring relief so as not to necessitate ongoing therapy. However once the event of decompression is obtained a retention program or maintenance schedule is recommended. It is our recommendation that doctors/patients integrate an active and passive exercise component in addition to a home care protocol designed to teach the patient to strengthen their back.

Disc Centers of America, works with disc cases all over the world. Only DCOA doctors are certified to utilize TDC Therapy. DCOA doctors receive ongoing training, research and are acknowledged by the International Medical Advisory Board on Non-Surgical Spinal Decompression and the International Disc Education Association.

The medical information on this email is provided as an information resource only, and is not to be used or relied on for any diagnostic or treatment purposes. This information does not create any patient-physician relationship, and should not be used as a substitute for professional diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your health care provider before making any healthcare decisions. © This copyrighted material is exclusive to DCOA. Unauthorized reproduction is prohibited.