When it comes to personal injury (PI) cases, clear medical evidence can be the key to validating a client’s injuries and securing fair compensation. Orthopedic findings play a vital role in documenting trauma, determining causation, and supporting a legal claim. But not all findings carry the same weight in a courtroom or settlement negotiation.
At Matthewson Orthopedics, we specialize in thorough, objective assessments that help clarify the medical picture. Here are three orthopedic findings that consistently strengthen personal injury cases:
1. Imaging-Confirmed Structural Injuries
One of the most powerful tools in a PI case is objective imaging—especially when it reveals damage that aligns with the mechanism of injury. Findings like:
- Disc herniations or bulges confirmed by MRI
- Fractures or dislocations visible on X-ray or CT
- Labral or meniscal tears seen on arthrogram or MRI
These injuries provide clear evidence of trauma and are much harder for opposing counsel or insurance carriers to dispute. When imaging is paired with a well-documented physical exam and a timeline that aligns with the incident, it creates a strong foundation for causation.
2. Consistent Loss of Function or Range of Motion
Objective loss of mobility, especially when measured over multiple visits, can demonstrate the real-world impact of an injury. Common orthopedic examples include:
- Limited cervical or lumbar spine range of motion
- Reduced shoulder abduction following a rotator cuff tear
- Knee instability after ligamentous injury
When these deficits are measured, tracked, and supported by physical therapy notes, they provide a clinical narrative that reflects the patient’s pain, limitations, and need for continued care.
3. Positive Orthopedic Special Tests
Specialized in-office tests can be key clinical evidence, especially when they consistently produce pain or instability. Examples include:
- Spurling’s Test: Indicates cervical radiculopathy
- Straight Leg Raise: Confirms lumbar nerve root irritation
- Apprehension Test: Suggests shoulder instability
- McMurray’s or Lachman’s Test: Detects meniscal or ligament injury
These tests, when properly performed and recorded, show a trained clinician’s ability to identify injury patterns that might not always be immediately visible on imaging.
Final Thoughts
In the world of personal injury litigation, objective findings + clinical expertise = compelling medical evidence. At Matthewson Orthopedics, we understand the importance of detailed documentation, timely evaluations, and collaborative communication with legal teams.
If you’re an attorney looking for experienced orthopedic insight and orthopedic findings for your client’s injury, we’re here to support your case with clarity, professionalism, and precision.
Interested in referring a patient or learning more about our PI services? Contact us or request a referral packet today.