There’s no easy answer. But I have some observations.
Typically, chiropractors don’t get involved in extensive treatment of severe injuries – ones where surgery is necessary, or where an x-ray or MRI shows objective evidence of an injury. So the fact that a chiropractor is treating you extensively will be seen by many insurance companies as evidence that you are not hurt that bad.
And like many lawyers, I have seen a number of cases involving chiropractors where the patient treated for a very long period of time – resulting in very large bills – without noticeable improvement.
This is a “red flag” for insurance adjusters. Without objective evidence of a severe injury – like surgery or an x-ray that shows a fracture, or an MRI showing a ruptured disc or torn ligament – adjusters are programmed to see such extensive treatment as an attempt by the victim or his lawyer to “build up” medical bills, so that the settlement will be larger.
The more likely result of such extensive treatment is that the injured person winds up with a very large bill and an offer that is relatively small.
And finally, most people think that a specialist such as an orthopedic surgeon or a neurosurgeon is more qualified to treat an injury than a chiropractor.
To be fair, I have seen some physical therapy bills that are as extensive as those incurred with any chiropractor. And a lot of people – like my sister, who is an R.N. – feel chiropractors are more attentive to their problems than medical doctors. Even some doctors recommend their patients treat with chiropractors.
But if you want my advice, it is this. Seek the treatment you think is most likely to help you; but rely on medical doctors and the treatment they prescribe whenever possible.
Lots of people prefer to see chiropractors; but it may be difficult to get the other side to recognize your bills for a chiropractor’s treatment as a legitimate health care expense caused by the accident, or as an indication of the extent of your pain and suffering.
I have been a lawyer over 30 years, I am always thinking about the effect of medical, chiropractic and osteopathic treatment on my clients’ lawsuits. If you want to know more about what makes insurance companies pay less – or more – on a lawsuit, speak with an experienced Cincinnati Injury Lawyer – call me, William Strubbe, at 513-621-4775 in Cincinnati.
Because all situations are different, and because there may be other facts pertaining to your case that I don’t know about, you should not rely on this answer for legal advice. I am not your attorney, and no lawyer client relationship has been formed.
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