While cervical disc pathology can unquestionably produce radiculopathy, many patients presenting with arm pain, paresthesia or perceived weakness do not exhibit the clinical behavior of true nerve-root compromise. In these cases, failure to differentiate the primary pain generator may lead to unnecessary spinal injections, nerve ablation procedures or surgical consultation despite limited likelihood of benefit.
I.Q. -- Interesting Quote
Tragic Mistakes
According to an article in USA Today1, the "annual toll of medical harm" is:
- 1.3 million injuries
- 180,000 deaths
- $50 million total costs
- $14 billion uncompensated costs
As this is the "annual toll," one has to question the overall risk and cost of many medical procedures. It would be quite enlightening for the public to have access to the risk factors of all forms of medical care as compared to chiropractic care BEFORE they make their health care decisions.
Reference
1. Levy, D. Helping hospitals learn from tragic mistakes. USA Today, November 5, 1996.