Medical Malpractice Risks in Chiropractic Treatment

Chiropractic Malpractice

The Florida personal injury attorneys at Dellecker, Wilson, King, McKenna, Ruffier & Sos have years of experience litigating against chiropractic malpractice.

If you or your loved ones have experienced injuries after visiting a chiropractor, even if these injuries did not occur for weeks after the appointment, call us or come in for a free consultation today.

Elements of Chiropractic Malpractice

As with any medical malpractice case, medical professionals owe a duty of care to their patients. Medical professionals are expected to perform their services at a level similar to other similarly trained professionals in their specialty.

If a chiropractor, or any medical professional, fails to meet this standard, he or she may be liable for damages that occur as a result of his actions or inactions.

Common Types of Chiropractic Malpractice

Negligent Manipulation of the Body

Negligent manipulation occurs when a chiropractor treats the body in such a way that either creates new injuries or worsens existing injuries, for example by improperly twisting, pulling, or turning the body. The American Heart Association recognizes that neck adjustments by chiropractic or osteopathic doctors may increase your risk of stroke. Neck adjustments may lead to a small tear in the wall of an artery, which may lead to blood clots or stroke.

If a chiropractor, or any other doctor, negligently manipulates the body of a patient, he may be liable for the injuries and damages he causes.

Lack of Informed Consent

Medical professionals have information that they are required to share with patients. A chiropractor must receive a patient’s full, informed consent before performing a procedure. To obtain this consent, the chiropractor must explain the risks and possible side effects of the treatment plan or procedure before beginning.

If not, the chiropractor may be liable for malpractice and the patient would be entitled to compensation for his or her injuries. Compensation may include medical bills, lost wages, and more.

Failure to Properly Diagnose

A chiropractor has a duty to properly diagnose a medical condition that needs immediate medical attention. If the chiropractor does not diagnose an injury or condition, and injury results to the patient, the chiropractor may be liable for the damages and owe compensation to the patient.