|
GgGait: The manner in which a patient walks. Gait Evaluation: Observation and analysis of a patient walking. The type of gait is noted. General Damages: Money damages for pain and suffering, disability, or reduction in quality of life. George’s Line: An x-ray study technique to detect abnormal vertebral alignment as seen on a side view x-ray of the neck. The back-side edges of the vertebral bodies are connected with a continuous line. In a normal study, there is a smooth curving line. In an abnormal study there is an abrupt jog or offset in the line to an anterolisthesis or retrolisthesis position. If there is a sharp break in the line, or a stepping effect, this could be a sign of fracture, dislocation or gross ligamentous instability. GI Tube: A tube inserted through a surgical opening into the stomach. It is used to introduce liquids, food or medication into the stomach when the person is unable to take these substances by mouth Giveway Weakness: An abnormal muscle weakness noted upon examination. It is weakness that is inconsistent; usually involving full motor strength against initial resistance, followed by the strength “giving way”. Glascow Coma Scale: A standardized system used to assess the degree of brain impairment and to identify the seriousness of injury in relation to outcome. The system involves three determinants: eye opening, verbal responses and motor response - all of which are evaluated independently according to a numerical value that indicates the level of consciousness and degree of dysfunction. Scores run from a high of 15 to a low of 3. Persons are considered to have experienced a “mild” brain injury when their score is 13 to 15. A score of 9 to 12 is considered to reflect a “moderate” brain injury and a score of 8 or less reflects a “severe” brain injury. Goniometer: A protector device used for measuring joint angle and range of motion. Gonstead Technique: A chiropractic technique that uses the practitioner’s hands to make corrections of the spine. This is a high-velocity (high-acceleration), low-amplitude adjusting technique. It is taught at most chiropractic colleges. It was developed over several decades by Clarence Gonstead, D.C. It also utilizes specific x-ray analysis and spinal heat readings. GP: Abbreviation for a medical doctor who is a General Practitioner. Grip Strength Testing: Determination of the amount of strength in the hand and forearms while gripping a dynamometer. It can be used to assess changes over time of the motor function of nerves exiting the lower cervical spine. Gross Instability: An orthopedic spine term which refers to excessive motion between two joints or two vertebral segments. In spinal evaluation, gross instability usually indicates ligamentous injury. Gross Range of Motion: A term that usually refers to the overall range of motion of a spinal region. See Range of Motion (ROM). Guardian: A person with the lawful power and duty to take care of a person and manage his/her property and/or rights. Guardian Ad Litem: A guardian appointed by the court to represent the interests of a minor. |
