MS Misdiagnosed as a Pinched Nerve

When MS (Multiple Sclerosis) is misdiagnosed as a pinched nerve, there may be serious consequences. This is because appropriate treatment may be delayed or incorrect treatment given.

MS is a chronic autoimmune disease that affects the central nervous system. This leads to a range of neurological symptoms. However, due to its varied and sometimes subtle presentation, MS is frequently misdiagnosed. One of the most common misdiagnoses in the UK is a pinched nerve, or cervical radiculopathy.

If you or a loved one has received a misdiagnosis for MS, you may be considering making a claim for clinical negligence. Jefferies Claims may be able to help you and we work with lawyers who operate on a ‘No Win, No Fee’ basis.

Understanding Multiple Sclerosis and a Pinched Nerve

What is MS ?

MS occurs when the immune system mistakenly attacks the protective myelin sheath around nerves, causing inflammation and damage. This disrupts communication between the brain and the rest of the body. This will result in symptoms such as:

• Numbness or tingling in the limbs
• Muscle weakness
• Loss of coordination and balance
• Blurred vision
• Fatigue
• Cognitive impairment

What is a Pinched Nerve?

A pinched nerve, medically known as cervical or lumbar radiculopathy, happens when a nerve in the spine is compressed. This may be because of a herniated disc, bone spur, or other structural issue. This can lead to symptoms including:

• Localized or radiating pain
• Numbness or tingling, particularly in the arms or legs
• Muscle weakness in the affected area
• Reduced reflexes

Why is MS Misdiagnosed as a Pinched Nerve

Overlapping Symptoms

Both MS and a pinched nerve can cause numbness, tingling, and muscle weakness. This may result in medical professionals to firstly consider mechanical issues rather than neurological disease.

MRI Interpretation Challenges

MS lesions on the brain and spinal cord are a key diagnostic feature. However, the MS brain lesions may be overlooked if the MRI is only focused on the spine.

Misattribution to Lifestyle Factors

Patients with MS may report symptoms such as numbness and tingling, which can be dismissed as being due to poor posture, stress, or a sedentary lifestyle. This can result in a delayed neurological referral.

Consequences of Misdiagnosis

Delayed Treatment

Early treatment of MS is crucial to slowing disease progression and preventing irreversible damage. Misdiagnosis as a pinched nerve can delay access to disease-modifying therapies (DMTs). This can increase the risk of disability.

Unnecessary Treatments

Some patients misdiagnosed with a pinched nerve may undergo physical therapy, spinal injections, or even surgery—none of which will address MS. Because of this, unnecessary risk and costs may be incurred, while appropriate care is delayed.

Mental and Emotional Toll

If your symptoms have not improved despite treatment for a pinched nerve, you may feel stressed or dismissed. The uncertainty and lack of progress can lead to anxiety and depression which can have an impact on your life.

A thorough neurological evaluation, including MRI scans of both the brain and spine, lumbar puncture (if necessary), and evoked potential tests, can help differentiate MS from other conditions.

Making a Medical Negligence Claim For Misdiagnosis

If you have been misdiagnosed with a pinched nerve when you actually have multiple sclerosis, you may be entitled to make a medical negligence claim. MS misdiagnosed as a pinched nerve can result in delayed treatment, unwarranted suffering and irreversible damage.

When making a medical negligence claim, it is necessary to prove that the misdiagnosis directly caused harm, worsening your condition. You will need to collect copies of your medical records, including scans, test results and doctor’s notes.

Compensation for misdiagnosis typically covers pain and suffering, loss of earnings, on-going medical treatment costs, care and assistance expenses and psychological distress caused.

Time Limits for Claims in the UK

In the UK, medical negligence claims must usually be made within three years from the date of diagnosis or when you first became aware of the misdiagnosis. However, exceptions may apply in certain cases.

Take The Next Step

Jefferies Claims can advise you on a potential medical negligence claim. We work with highly experienced lawyers who operate on a ‘No Win, No Fee’ basis and your information remains confidential.

Contact Jefferies Claims today at 0333 358 3034 or complete our online contact form to arrange an initial no-obligation telephone consultation.