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Estelle v. Gamble

United States Supreme Court

429 U.S. 97 (1976)

Facts

During J. W. Gamble’s (plaintiff) imprisonment he was injured and began to experience back pain. In a three-month period, Gamble saw medical personnel 17 times for his back pain, high blood pressure, and heart problems. The doctors diagnosed Gamble with a lower-back strain. Gamble was told to treat the pain with bed rest and was given muscle relaxants and pain relievers. Gamble felt that the doctors’ diagnosis and treatment for his back pain was not adequate. Gamble filed a cause of action under 42 U.S.C. § 1983, alleging that his right to be protected from cruel and unusual punishment under the Eighth Amendment to the United States Constitution had been violated. Gamble’s complaint was dismissed in district court. The court of appeals reversed and remanded the dismissal. The United States Supreme Court granted certiorari.

Rule of Law

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Issue

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Holding and Reasoning (Marshall, J.)

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A "yes" or "no" answer to the question framed in the issue section;
A summary of the majority or plurality opinion, using the CREAC method; and
The procedural disposition (e.g., reversed and remanded, affirmed, etc.).

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