Determining an Impairment Rating Through an Independent Medical Examination

[bigmacattac]

My question involves workers compensation law for the state of: Nebraska

I hurt my back at work in January of 2012, started the process of work comp and have gone through quite a long road. First I was diagnosed with LBP(imagine that, right?) and then eventually moved on to a orthopedic surgeon as the treating doctor. He diagnosed me with SI(sacroiliac) joint dysfunction. I went through 6 weeks of physical therapy with little results, and then a injection into the joint, making the pain worse. Finally I was given the ok to get an MRI, which showed herniated L4 and L5 discs as well as an annular tear on L5. At this time I obtained legal council and asked for an independent medical examination, in which I was given the same diagnosis and recommended PT hardening to get me closer to where I needed to be as far as factory work. PT hardening ends this friday, still can't consistently lift over 30 lbs, and having pain after sitting for more than 30 minutes. My question is, does anyone have a general idea of what my impairment rating would be with this injuries and where I go from here? Also, would you recommend that I seek and independent medical exam for an impairment rating as well? I'm basically just wondering where I go from here. Thanks so much for your time and answers in advance!

[greentree]

it depends on the rating guidelines being used. and even at that ratings are generally too complex to guess at. disability can affect a number of different bodily systems and restrictions like "can't lift over 30 pounds" and "pain when sitting beyond half hour" are not relevant to most functional impairment measurements.

it's best to follow the advice of your legal representative who knows the details of your case, the reputation of those in your medical community, as well as the tendencies of your local comp court.