Different Types of Chiropractic Malpractice Cases

Chiropractic care and treatment has gained much popularity over the years. While the benefits of going to a chiropractor may be subject to some controversy, there is no doubt that there are risks involved. Chiropractic malpractice happens when a patient is injured because a chiropractor failed to adhere to the accepted standard of care within the chiropractic profession.

Below are some examples of the common types of chiropractor malpractice.

Failure to Diagnose a Medical Issue That Requires Immediate Attention

Just like other medical professionals, chiropractors have a duty to put their patient’s health first. This duty includes the responsibility to recognize if the symptoms presented by their patient could be caused by an underlying medical condition. In such a case, the chiropractor has a duty to refer the patient for immediate medical care. If the chiropractor fails to diagnose the medical condition or is negligent in referring the patient to a medical doctor, he may be held liable for any resulting injury.

Failure to Explain the Risks of Treatment

Similar to other medical treatments, chiropractors must explain all associated risks of any chiropractic adjustments or other care prior to administrating the treatment. If a chiropractor fails to properly inform his patient of the risks and the patient suffers an injury as a result of the treatment, the chiropractor may be liable for malpractice.

Negligent Manipulation

A chiropractor may also be liable for malpractice if he creates new injuries or worsens existing injuries as a result of negligent manipulation of the body. Common injuries associated with chiropractic adjustments include:

Herniated discs
Broken ribs
Fractured vertebrae
Nerve damage
Pinched nerves
Sciatic nerve pain
Neck pain
Lower back pain

Stroke

One of the most common risks of chiropractic manipulation of the neck is damage to the arteries that carries blood to the brain. This can cause a stroke. The most common symptoms of chiropractic induced stroke include:

Dizziness
Loss of balance
Diplopia
Nystagmus (a vision condition in which the eyes make repetitive, uncontrolled movements)
Oscillopsia
Weakness in both legs
Hemiparesis
Numbness

Call an Orange County Chiropractic Malpractice Attorney Today!

The legal team at the Law Offices of Samer Habbas is dedicated to helping our injured clients reach the best monetary settlement after suffering a serious chiropractic injury due to substandard care.

If you or a loved one has been harmed or injured by the negligent acts of a doctor chiropractor, you deserve justice and you may be entitled to compensation for your pain and suffering, lost wages, medical bills, and more. Call us at 1-888-848-5048 to schedule a free, complimentary consultation with one of our Orange County chiropractic malpractice attorneys today.