The injured party was examined by the IME doctor several months after the motor vehicle accident and he reported continued tenderness throughout the cervical and lumbar spine regions. The IME doctor’s diagnosis of the injured party was ongoing sprain/strain. As the arbitrator reviewed the medical records an MRI was brought forth suggesting that the injured party’s spinal injury was more severe that a sprain/strain.

The study revealed a disc bulge at L5-S1, with ventral canal encroachment. In addition, electro diagnostic studies revealed evidence of bilateral radiculopathy at C8 and L5. These medical reports were prior to the IME and confirmed positive findings consistent with the complaints and positive findings set forth the provider’s examinations after the IME.

Result: Our provider was awarded the full amount of the post IME treatment.