Question about rating

[Bummer Knees]

I had a total knee replacement June 2008.

I was released from physical therapy today. The extension and flexion of my knee are not where the therapist felt they need to be due to problems with my back causing problems with the muscles in my legs.

A hearing has been scheduled to add my back to my wc claim. The doctor has put in writing linking my back problems to my abnormal gait, this has been noted by two doctors.

My knee surgeon expects to place me at MMI Oct 1st.
Will the problems with my back cause a problem or penalty when rating my knee?

[1171]

I don't don't know which rating system is used for your case but unless a concurrent condition prevents a rating from being done I don't see a connection.

P.S. if the back is accepted I would think they would postpone a knee rating until the back is also ready for rating.

[Bummer Knees]

Thank you 1171, I am from Kansas and we use the AMA 4th.

[Cycler]

re"P.S. if the back is accepted I would think they would postpone a knee rating until the back is also ready for rating."

Like all things in comp - it depends...

If the primary condition can be found MMI then it CAN be rated regardless if other issues are pending that may impact it. It really depends on how bad the atty wants some money now usually.

[Bad Boy Bad Boy]

I don't see the Ortho Surgeon rating anything, if the surgeon is stating you have other problems, and therefore not putting you at MMI.

[Bummer Knees]

My ortho surgeon I see Oct 1st has made it clear he will only treat the left knee. This surgeon speciality is joint replacements.

To date work comp has sent me to 12 doctors, two doctors have linked my knees and back together and put it in writing and have sent this to the judge.

[Bad Boy Bad Boy]

I understand the Ortho surgeon, but I would think you have a Lead Doctor treating you, and Ortho should be conferring with your Lead Doctor in your best interest.

I had a Lead Doctor, Occ Med, I told all my Doctor's/ Surgeon's they must tell him what's going on with me, and what they require be done. Then I would see my Lead Doctor, and their office then did all the scheduling for me.

You should always have a Team of Doctor's like you do, but only one Lead Doctor looking out for your best interest.

[Bummer Knees]

Bad Boy, I do not have a lead doctor.

I have been going to my family doctor (Osteopath) for various medical needs.
He has communicated with the ortho and attorney when needed.

We may do things differently in my state.

[Cycler]

To answer your original question;

"Will the problems with my back cause a problem or penalty when rating my knee? The answer is no. In fact if you subscribe to the theory that back problems can cause muscle problems in the legs that might reduce knee flexibility then your knee impairment rating will actually be "helped"; i.e. higher, than it would have been absent the back problem.