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.
Correction
Our November 7, 1990 edition included a report on "Methods of Physician Selection Provided by Workers' Compensation Statutes." South Dakota was listed as one of the states in which the employer selects the physician.
Charles Kornmann, general counsel to the South Dakota Chiropractors' Association, informs us that since July 1, 1990 this is no longer the law in South Dakota. Employees in South Dakota have the initial choice of physician. Also, a physician in South Dakota is specifically defined now by workers'compensation law to include chiropractors.