Understanding Your Work Injury: Diagnostic Testing Explained

In workers' compensation cases in Wisconsin, diagnostic testing plays a vital role in assessing and documenting work-related injuries or illnesses. Common types of diagnostic testing frequently utilized in these cases include:

1. Physical examinations. Our healthcare providers conduct comprehensive physical examinations to assess the extent of workplace injuries or illnesses. These exams help determine the nature of the injury, its severity, and its impact on the individual's ability to work.
2. Diagnostic imaging. Diagnostic imaging modalities such as X-rays, CT scans, and MRI scans are commonly employed to visualize and evaluate injuries to bones, joints, soft tissues, and internal organs resulting from workplace accidents or exposures.
3. Electromyography (EMG) and Nerve Conduction Velocity studies (NCV). EMG and NCV tests assess the electrical activity and function of muscles and nerves, aiding in diagnosing conditions such as nerve compression injuries (e.g., carpal tunnel syndrome) and peripheral neuropathies.
4. Neurological assessments. These assessments evaluate neurological function, including sensory, motor, and cognitive abilities, which may be affected by workplace injuries or neurological conditions.
5. Vocational assessments. Vocational assessments may be conducted to evaluate the impact of workplace injuries on an individual's ability to perform job duties, identify transferable skills, and assess employability in alternative occupations.

By employing a combination of these diagnostic testing methods, our healthcare providers can accurately assess the extent of injuries or illnesses related to workplace incidents, facilitate appropriate treatment and rehabilitation, and support fair resolution of workers' compensation claims in Wisconsin.