The spine has bone, muscle, nerve, and ligament that maybe injured in an accident or trauma. When ligaments are damaged the condition is usually permanent and progressive either now or both now and in the future. This can cause a lot of pain, both acute and chronic as well as other neurological consequences. The spinal sprain is the most commonly diagnosed spinal injury and sprains can be mild with no clinically detectable increase in joint laxity, to severe where a complete ligament disruption can result in significant joint laxity. When a ligament that holds the spine together is damaged it can be accurately and reliably measured using computer assistance. Computerized radiographic mensuration analysis (CRMA) is one test Dr. McNeil and the treating physicians of Metro Detroit Chiropractors use to objectively quantify the severity and precise location of spinal ligament injuries caused by a major trauma such as an auto accident. Dr. Chris McNeil explains, “It’s important to test for spinal ligament injures. CRMA helps us determine the location and the severity of any spinal ligamentous laxity and instability. The information we get from this testing can help to develop or modify both the patient’s treatment plan as well as any other diagnostic testing referrals that may be needed.” A common auto injury the Metro Detroit Chiropractors physicians are looking to rule out with CRMA is called Alteration Of Motion Segment Integrity (AOMSI). Loss of Motion Segment Integrity occurs when they have measured ligament laxity, instability or sub-failure to an injured spine that meets the AMA Impairment Guides Measured Criteria. . “This injury is perhaps the most common cause of impairments and disabilities related to spinal injuries” said Dr. McNeil. Computerized analysis of flexion/extension X-rays by a board certified medical radiologist can help determine the severity and location of a patient’s damaged and injured ligaments. With CRMA the measurements are precise and follow peer reviewed care standards published in the Journal of the American Medical Association and are adopted by the International Chiropractic Association. By documenting a patient’s auto accident injuries it can help the patient to access any benefits that they may be entitled to from the auto insurance carrier. On page 18 of AMA Guides To Impairment Ratings 5th Edition is states “Thorough documentation of medical findings and their impact will also ensure that reporting is fair and consistent and that individuals have the information needed to pursue any benefits to which they are entitled.” CRMA is one of the ways doctors can objectively support their patient’s auto accident injury claims. “Most doctors are very good at assessing damage to the bone, muscle and nerve, but virtually have no diagnostic work up for the spinal ligaments” says Dr. McNeil. Since ligament injuries are usually permanent, CRMA test results helps doctors to better manage their patients and make life or work modification guidance on what they should or should not do. Test Results can also help to establish permanent impairments, disabilities and objectively support a prognosis for future care.