Chiropractic Negligence
When a person is experiencing back pain, shoulder pain, neck pain, elbow pain, or other musculoskeletal issues, they may seek the help of a chiropractor. Chiropractors are healthcare professionals who practice chiropractic treatment, which entails using the hands to help relieve problems with the muscles, bones, and joints. Chiropractors use manual adjustments to restore alignment and mobility to affected body parts. Chiropractic care can be beneficial for many patients. However, if a chiropractor makes a mistake, it can result in injuries. Chiropractic injuries are rare, but they do occur, and when they occur, they often have devastating consequences. If a chiropractic injury happens due to negligence or improper chiropractic care, the victim or their family may be entitled to recover compensation through a medical malpractice claim.
Understanding Chiropractic Negligence
Chiropractic negligence arises when a chiropractor fails to meet the accepted standard of care expected within their profession, resulting in harm or injury to a patient. Chiropractic negligence can result in severe harm or injuries. In Georgia, victims of chiropractic negligence or their loved ones may be able to pursue justice and compensation through a medical malpractice claim.
The claimant must prove several elements to have a successful chiropractic medical malpractice claim. The following are the elements that a claimant must demonstrate:
- Duty of care: This generally entails showing that the chiropractor had a legal obligation to provide competent and appropriate care to the patient.
- Breach of duty: The chiropractor failed to adhere to the accepted standard of care within their profession, either by negligent acts of commission or omission
- Causation: A claimant must prove that the chiropractor’s breach of duty proximately caused the patient’s injury or harm.
- Damages: Finally, it must be shown that actual harm or damages were suffered due to the negligence, including medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
A qualified medical malpractice attorney can help with your chiropractic medical malpractice claim. They can investigate your case, help gather and present evidence, consult with medical experts, and file a lawsuit on your behalf. A skilled lawyer can negotiate with the insurance company and represent you in court if necessary.
Common Injuries Caused by Chiropractic Negligence
Chiropractic negligence can cause several injuries, including the following:
- Fractures or dislocations
- Nerve damage
- Soft tissue injuries
- Stroke
- Herniated discs
The above injuries may be caused by, among other things, the following;
- Excessive force
- Use of improper techniques
- Failing to assess risk factors
- Lack of patient screening
- Inadequate training
A stroke, for example, can occur due to improper neck or back adjustments. Improper adjustments might cause a tear of the major vessels in the neck, which, in turn, might obstruct blood flow to the brain. A patient might suffer a stroke immediately or sometime after the adjustment. Sometimes, patients do not even realize their stroke symptoms are a result of the chiropractic treatment.
Contact an Atlanta Medical Malpractice Attorney
If you or a loved one has been harmed or injured by a negligent chiropractor, contact our qualified Atlanta medical malpractice attorney at Carroll Law Firm for legal help. We can help you hold the negligent chiropractor accountable and recover the compensation you deserve.
