Court Opinion

ID: 9724982
Source: CourtListenerOpinion
Date Created: 2023-08-26 11:23:51.647414+00
Date Added: 2024-06-11T18:25:08.604922
License: Public Domain

JUSTICE RARICK, dissenting: Because I do not find the statement of claimant’s doctor to be ambiguous or equivocal, I must dissent. We are faced here with a case of aggravation of a preexisting condition. Clearly, the repetitive heavy lifting and bending claimant performed in her job aggravated her low back condition. Prior to working for employer, claimant had experienced low back symptoms over the years and had been diagnosed with chronic low back syndrome. There were, however, no medical records or other probative evidence suggesting a prior herniated disc. Claimant also testified she felt "okay” before starting her new job. After several months on the job, however, the low back pain became excruciating, radiating into her lower legs. Upon admission to the hospital on March 25, 1991, claimant gave a history of worsening low back pain. During this same hospitalization, Dr. Marrese recommended that claimant change occupations. How much more proof of causal connection is required? Employer presented no medical evidence to the contrary, that claimant’s current condition was not causally related to her employment, except what claimant already admitted — she experienced some back problems prior to her employment with employer. Simply because the Commission refuses to acknowledge Dr. Marrese’s finding of causal connection both at the time of claimant’s hospitalization in March 1991 and 14 months later does not justify reversal of the award of benefits. I therefore would affirm the judgment of the circuit court. COLWELL, J., joins in this dissent.