I had brought with me, as instructed, copies of my EMG results and X Rays.  I explained my history to Dr. Wenner who commented that my EMG results showed no abnormalities.  I corrected him and told him the results in fact did show some slowed response in my right wrist.  At that point Dr. Wenner finally looked at the copy of the EMG results and commented, “I’m not sure what to make of these”.  He informed me that he was going to “Get Dr. Bajwa’s formal interpretation of the results” at which time he exited the exam room.  He returned 10 minutes later.

            Upon his return Dr. Wenner informed me that according to my EMG results I had carpal tunnel syndrome.  However, the symptoms I was reporting were not consistent with carpal tunnel.  I was confused by this contradiction and when I asked Dr. Wenner, “So what exactly does that mean?” he replied “That means that you aren’t going to get any money from a settlement for his injury”.

            My initial response was one of complete shock.  In retrospect I am completely appalled and offended at Dr. Wenner’s insinuation.  I waited 4 weeks for a hand specialist to evaluate me and rather than get any sort of medical advice, Dr. Wenner implied that this injury was pre-existing and I was trying to pass it off as a motor vehicle accident injury in an attempt to receive money.  As far as I am concerned, the legal portion of my accident is totally irrelevant to the care I expect to receive.  Had Dr. Wenner either asked or inquired with my primary care physician, he would have learned that at no time have I ever complained of wrist pain or symptoms similar to the ones I have had since this car accident.  Frankly, I resent the implication that I am only trying to make money off of this injury.

            Upon conclusion of the appointment, Dr. Wenner summed up my case as follows:

1.      I have had carpal tunnel syndrome for some existing length of time prior to this car accident because such a condition is cannot be caused through a car accident

2.      There is no nerve damage in my wrist (even though the EMG results show otherwise)

3.      The EMG results appear to be a ‘test abnormality’ because there is not nerve damage.

4.      I do not need further treatment for this injury.  I should just take some ibuprofen if my wrist hurts.

5.      If I still don’t feel better in 4 months then I can come back and Dr. Wenner would then consider treating me for carpal tunnel syndrome.

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