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.
Interesting Quote
The Next Generation of MCOs
"Managed care was 'soup to nuts' with a 'we'll take care of you' attitude. As consumers demand alternative care, MCOs are obliged to respond to attract and retain members. When they offer alternative medicine, they are breaking their original credo, dissembling what managed care organizations were built upon. They are becoming the next generation of indemnity plans."
-- J.D. Kleinke, vice president, Managed Care for HCIA, a Baltimore-based health care information company.
Source: Changing their ways to keep up with the times. Managed Healthcare, June 1997.