Independent Medical Evaluations (IMEs) Explained

FAQ	Answer
What is a tendon?	A tendon is a tough band of fibrous tissue that connects muscles to bones. It allows for smooth movement and stability of joints.
What is a ligament?	A ligament is a strong, flexible band of fibrous connective tissue that connects bones together and provides stability to joints.
What is the difference between a tendon and a ligament?	The main difference between a tendon and a ligament is their location and function. Tendons connect muscles to bones, while ligaments connect bones to other bones. Tendons facilitate movement, while ligaments provide stability.
What is a spinal cord injury?	A spinal cord injury refers to damage to the spinal cord resulting in a loss of function or mobility. It can lead to partial or complete paralysis of the body below the level of injury.
How is a tendon injury evaluated through an IME?	An IME for a tendon injury involves a comprehensive medical examination by an independent medical expert who assesses the extent of the injury, reviews medical records, and may order additional tests or imaging studies.
How is a ligament injury evaluated through an IME?	Similar to a tendon injury evaluation, an IME for a ligament injury includes a thorough examination by a medical expert who evaluates the injury, reviews medical records, and may order additional tests or imaging studies to determine the severity and impact of the injury.
How is a spinal cord injury evaluated through an IME?	An IME for a spinal cord injury involves a comprehensive examination by a specialist in spinal cord injuries. The evaluation includes a detailed assessment of neurological function, review of medical records, and possibly additional tests such as MRI or CT scans.
Who performs IMEs for tendon and ligament injuries?	IMEs for tendon and ligament injuries are usually conducted by orthopedic specialists or sports medicine physicians who have expertise in evaluating musculoskeletal conditions.
Who performs IMEs for spinal cord injuries?	IMEs for spinal cord injuries are typically performed by neurologists or neurosurgeons who specialize in spinal cord conditions and have extensive knowledge of the nervous system.
What is the purpose of an IME for tendon, ligament, and spinal cord injuries?	The purpose of an IME is to provide an unbiased evaluation of an individual’s medical condition, assess the extent of the injury, determine the cause of the injury, and provide an expert opinion on the individual’s functional limitations and future prognosis.