Examples of this same type of practice would include tests for the presence of thoracic outlet syndrome, EMGs, ECGs, and EKGs to mention a few. As you probably know, the manufacturers have done their own research and have published their conclusions. Within the chiropractic profession our national associations in conjunction with our colleges and research organizations are developing 'practice parameters' that I'm sure you will agree, are badly needed. As a part of the process, a week long conference was held at the Mercy Center in San Francisco, California, in January of this year, which is the culmination of two year's work. Significant clinical information can be obtained toward these objectives, but careless interpretation of test data can result in inappropriate clinical decisions.
Acute disorders are a contraindication to strength test protocols.
The statements made in this section are supported by a list of published studies using these types of muscle testers in patient and employee evaluations. Since the treatment record indicates that the patient who was evaluated with the muscle tester had sustained an acute soft tissue injury to the cervical spine only 11 days prior to the test being performed, and since the Mercy Center Report states 'Acute disorders are a contraindication to strength test protocols' the conclusion must follow that utilization of a muscle testing device in this case is inappropriate because of the timing of its use being in the acute post-injury phase of care. The decision of the arbitrator has accomplished two things. This is a very important victory. The chiropractic profession must be able to continue to utilize the diagnostic and therapeutic equipment that is of benefit to our patients.