Independent doctor evaluation for back issues - What to expect at EDD's mandatory exam?

they do this randomly to make sure people arent milking the system. my brother went thru this last yr for his shoulder. just be honest about yr pain levels dont exaggerate but dont minimize either

I went through this process in 2024 for my lumbar issues. The independent medical exam (IME) is actually pretty thorough but not designed to be painful. The doctor will: 1. Review your medical records, including MRIs and doctor's notes 2. Ask about your daily activities and limitations 3. Perform some basic range of motion tests (they won't force you beyond your comfort level) 4. Test for muscle weakness and nerve issues with simple resistance exercises 5. Check your reflexes and sensation They understand these conditions are real and painful. Their job is to verify your limitations match your medical documentation. Just be honest about what you can and can't do. Don't try to "perform better" or "perform worse" than your actual condition. The exam typically takes 30-45 minutes. Let them know immediately if something is causing significant pain.

When the EDD sent me to an IME for my back disability, the doctor was actually pretty understanding. They had me do some basic movements like bending (only as far as comfortable), walking a short distance, sitting and standing. They'll observe your movements just getting on and off the exam table too. Bring a copy of your latest MRI report and any treatment records. Wear comfortable clothes. If you use a cane or brace, bring it. Most importantly, TAKE YOUR PAIN MEDICATION as regularly scheduled before going - don't try to show up in extra pain to prove a point. The doctor will submit their findings to EDD within 1-2 weeks. If their assessment matches your treating doctor's, your benefits should continue without interruption.

OMG I went through this exact thing for my disability with degenerative disc disease!!! I was so nervous I could barely sleep the night before, but honestly it wasn't nearly as bad as I expected. The doctor was actually really nice and didn't make me do anything that hurt too much. Just be 100% honest about your pain and limitations, don't exaggerate but don't downplay either. One tip - write down all your symptoms and limitations BEFORE you go in because sometimes when you're nervous you forget to mention important stuff. Like how long you can sit/stand, if you need help with basic things like putting on shoes, whether you can lift a gallon of milk, etc.

I had to go through this nightmare for my back injury. The so-called "independent" doctor works FOR EDD, not for you. They're looking for ANY reason to deny your claim. My experience was terrible - he barely looked at my MRIs and made me do movements that left me in excruciating pain for DAYS afterward. My best advice? Document EVERYTHING. Take someone with you as a witness if possible. Don't let them push you beyond your limits - firmly say NO if something is too painful. The minute I got home I wrote down everything that happened during the exam. And here's something else - if they cut off your benefits after this, don't give up! Appeal immediately. The whole system is designed to wear you down so you'll just give up.

Been trying to call EDD about something similar for weeks and keep getting disconnected! Finally used Claimyr (claimyr.com) and got through to an actual person in 20 minutes. They have a video showing how it works: https://youtu.be/1X-mEsLtbmQ?si=1hcSq3KFtCr4oAmd The agent I spoke with said these independent medical exams are pretty routine when disability claims go beyond 3 months. She also mentioned you can request to reschedule if you're having a particularly bad pain day. Definitely worth calling to understand your rights before the appointment.

my wife sees somethin called a Qualified Medical Evaluator for her workers comp case for her back and its totally different than her normal dr. brings forms every time cuz they ask tons of questions about daily stuff, like can u vacuum or do laundry. be careful what u say cuz they write EVERYTHING down

Yes, definitely bring your pain journal! That's excellent documentation. For anyone dealing with these EDD independent medical exams, here are some practical tips: 1. Request a copy of the doctor's report afterward (you're entitled to it) 2. If the exam causes increased pain, see your regular doctor right after and have them document it 3. If possible, have the medical examiner note any medications you're currently taking 4. Be prepared to explain how your condition affects specific work tasks related to your job 5. If you disagree with the findings, you can have your treating physician submit a supplemental report The ultimate goal of SDI is to support you until you can return to work, so be honest about your recovery progress too.

I went through an IME for my herniated disc about 6 months ago and I totally understand your anxiety! Here's what helped me prepare: I made a list of all my current medications, brought copies of my most recent imaging results, and wore loose clothing that was easy to move in. The doctor asked me to do things like walk across the room, sit down and stand up a few times, and some gentle range of motion tests. When she asked me to bend forward, I only went as far as I could without severe pain and she was completely fine with that - she even noted my limited range of motion in her notes. One thing that really helped was that I brought my husband with me. He could see how I was moving and if the doctor had asked me to do anything unreasonable, he would have spoken up. The whole thing took about 40 minutes and honestly, it was way less scary than I'd built it up to be in my head. Good luck with your appointment on Tuesday! Just remember - they're evaluating your condition, not testing your pain tolerance.

I had my IME for back problems about 3 months ago and I know exactly how you're feeling! The anticipation was honestly worse than the actual exam. Here's what helped me get through it: Bring a support person if you can - they can advocate for you if needed and help you remember details afterward. Also, don't feel pressured to do anything that causes severe pain. When the doctor asked me to bend or twist, I went only to my comfort level and said "this is as far as I can go without significant pain increase" and they respected that. The doctor spent a lot of time just talking - asking about my daily routine, what positions are most painful, how I sleep, etc. The physical part was maybe 15-20 minutes total. They watched me walk, sit, stand, and did some gentle pressing on my back to check for tender spots. One thing I wish I'd known - take your regular pain meds beforehand! Don't try to show up in extra pain to "prove" your condition. They want to see your functional level with proper treatment, not at your absolute worst. Write down your main concerns beforehand because it's easy to forget things when you're nervous. You've got this! The fact that you have clear MRI findings showing herniated disc and nerve compression is in your favor.