Spinal injury claims often involve significant imaging findings, extensive treatment, and substantial demands. But an abnormal MRI finding does not, by itself, answer the question of causation.

In case you missed our recent presentation, our team examined how spinal anatomy, biomechanics, medical history, and objective clinical findings can provide important context when evaluating claimed spinal injuries.

A few key takeaways:

• Distinguishing acute findings from degenerative changes
• Assessing medical findings in the context of the reported accident
• Evaluating the relationship between subjective complaints and objective clinical findings
• Considering relevant medical history and other factors that may affect causation
• Identifying circumstances where additional expert analysis may be helpful
• Evaluating the medical support for claimed treatment, expenses, and future care
• Communicating complex medical evidence clearly and effectively

For adjusters and claims professionals, the takeaway is straightforward: spinal claims require more than a review of the MRI report. A comprehensive evaluation of the medical evidence, accident circumstances, and claimed damages can provide a more complete picture of causation and exposure—and help inform a sound claim strategy.