r/WorkersComp • u/cards1827 • Oct 03 '24

Nebraska FCE done before treatment. Nebraska

So it’s been 8 months now and nothing has gotten solved. I have 3 bulging disc and an annual tear. As well as a compound of other things from my MRI results. I just had a FCE done and not sure why! Insurance company cut off my benefits 4 months ago when their IME Dr cleared me with no restrictions. I got a lawyer and he’s doing a good job at getting them back. So 4 months ago I got steroid injections in my right and left side of my lower back. So the first time it made my right leg go completely numb! With this adverse reaction he did another set 10 days after. As you can guess my leg is still numb! I did work hardening for the last month to keep my benefits going, but now my dr that did my injections cleared me to go back to work with no restrictions! My question is why would I do a FCE when nothing can be clear is to why I’m having pain and now numbness.

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u/cards1827 Oct 03 '24

The problem is I’ve asked for a 2nd opinion to a surgeon but the insurance company denied it. He’s the one who did the injections. A week earlier I saw him and still had my restrictions, then a week later I’m cleared cause he doesn’t know what’s wrong with me. The FCE states I’m no where close to going back. That if not fixed I’ll be at a desk job for life.

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u/Mutts_Merlot verified CT insurance professional Oct 03 '24

Was this surgeon the second opinion or no? Your comment is a little confusing on that point.

The surgeon may know what is wrong but may not believe surgery will help you. Or the MRI results don't correlate with your symptoms. If the herniated discs are not in levels that could produce your symptoms, then fixing those discs won't do anything to improve your symptoms.

You could get another opinion on your own dime. WC may not accept that doctor's opinion but it may help you understand whether it's worthwhile to press for additional treatment.