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.
Time to Teach: CCGPP Offers First Course Based on Literature Syntheses
"Chiropractic Management of Low Back Disorders - Evidence-Based Documentation," the first in a series of classes based on the Council on Chiropractic Guidelines and Practice Parameters' published literature syntheses, is available online through Northwestern Health Sciences University. According to the CCGPP, the low-back course (and subsequent courses covering other chapters of the council's Clinical Compass) is part of the ongoing Dissemination, Implementation, Evaluation and Review (DIER) process, intended to "help educate and familiarize practicing doctors of chiropractic with the available evidence and its utilization in record-keeping to substantiate and, when necessary, defend appropriate case management."
Wayne Bennett, DC, DABCO, DABCC, hosts the online course, which costs $30 and is approved for one hour of continuing education. To register, visit www.nwhealth.edu and click on the "Online Learning" button.