What Is Conservative Treatment in a Personal Injury Case?
If you’ve been in a car accident, you may have heard the term “conservative treatment” from doctors, chiropractors, or your personal injury attorney. But what does it mean, and why is it important in a personal injury claim? Conservative treatment refers to non-invasive methods used to manage injuries before more aggressive interventions like surgery are considered. Insurance companies and courts often evaluate the type and duration of treatment when determining the value of your claim.
1. Examples of Conservative Treatment
Conservative treatment includes therapies that are less invasive and lower risk than surgeries or interventional procedures. Common examples include:
Chiropractic care – Adjustments to realign the spine, relieve pressure, and improve mobility.
Physical therapy – Exercises, stretches, and manual therapy to restore function and reduce pain.
Medication – Anti-inflammatories, pain relievers, or muscle relaxants to manage symptoms.
Rest and activity modification – Avoiding movements or tasks that worsen injury while gradually resuming normal activity.
Example:
After a whiplash injury from a minor car accident, your doctor may recommend chiropractic care and physical therapy for several weeks before considering injections or surgery.
2. Why Conservative Treatment Matters in Personal Injury Cases
Insurance adjusters and courts often look at conservative treatment as evidence that the injury is being properly managed. Some key points:
It demonstrates the seriousness of the injury while showing that you’re following medical advice.
The length of treatment can affect the value of your claim. A few visits may suggest a minor injury, while months of therapy indicate ongoing issues.
Conservative treatment is often a prerequisite for more invasive procedures. If pain persists, the case may escalate to injections or surgery, increasing case value.
Example:
A claimant who receives 12 weeks of physical therapy and ongoing chiropractic care may have a higher case value than someone who only sees a doctor once for medication.
3. Conservative vs. Interventional Treatment
If conservative treatment doesn’t resolve your injuries, the next step may be interventional procedures, such as:
Steroid injections
Nerve blocks
Minimally invasive surgical procedures
While conservative treatment is non-invasive, interventional treatments show that the injury is more serious and persistent, which can increase compensation in a personal injury claim.
4. Documenting Conservative Treatment for Your Case
Proper documentation is critical to maximize recovery:
Keep records of all visits – Dates, treatments, and progress notes.
Track symptoms – Note improvements, flare-ups, and limitations in daily activities.
Follow the treatment plan – Insurance companies may question the value of care if you skip sessions or don’t follow recommendations.
Well-documented conservative care helps your attorney demonstrate the severity of your injuries and justify the value of your claim.
5. Conclusion
Conservative treatment in a personal injury case refers to non-invasive medical care like chiropractic visits, physical therapy, medication, and rest. While it is the first step in managing injuries, it also helps document the extent of your injuries and supports your claim. Proper documentation, consistent care, and legal guidance can help ensure you receive fair compensation for your pain, suffering, and medical expenses.
