Social Security Disability consultative exam for MS and neuropathy - what to expect?

I went through this last year. The consultative exam (CE) is very normal in the SSDI process - it doesn't mean anything negative about your case. The doctor is hired by SSA to provide an independent evaluation, not to treat you. My exam for neuropathy was about 30 minutes. They checked my reflexes, had me walk across the room, tested my grip strength, and asked about my daily limitations. Bring a list of your medications and doctors, but don't worry about bringing all your records - they should have those. Be honest about your limitations - don't exaggerate but don't minimize your symptoms either. If you're having a 'good day' tomorrow, make sure to explain what your bad days are like. Good luck!

my brother had 1 of these for his back problems. dont worry to much they just wanna see how bad ur condition is. the doctor barely talked to him just did some tests and that was it. he got approved 2 months later

I've been through THREE of these exams during my SSDI journey. Here's what you need to know: these doctors are PAID BY SSA and spend about 15-20 minutes with you max. They often don't understand complex conditions like MS. DOCUMENT EVERYTHING. If the doctor dismisses symptoms, write it down. If they rush you, note the time. When I finally got approved, my lawyer said my detailed notes about the consultative exams actually HELPED my case because they showed how inadequate they were. The system is DESIGNED to discourage you. Don't let it. And for god's sake, don't say you can do more than you actually can reliably do.

CEs (consultative exams) are standard procedure when SSA doesn't feel they have enough medical evidence to make a determination, or when they need more recent findings. A few recommendations for your appointment: 1. Be completely honest about your limitations 2. Describe your worst days in detail 3. Explain how your symptoms affect specific work activities 4. Mention side effects of medications 5. Discuss how often you need to rest or lie down 6. Bring a list of all treatments you've tried The CE physician will submit a report to DDS (Disability Determination Services) that becomes part of your medical evidence. This is just one piece of your overall application - not the final decision maker.

i had one and it was a joke!! doctor spent maybe 10 mins with me, barely looked at me, asked like 3 questions and i still got denied!! had to appeal. system is broken!!!

After struggling to get proper assessments from two consultative exams, I almost gave up on my disability claim. Couldn't reach anyone at SSA to explain my situation or get status updates - kept getting disconnected after waiting on hold for hours. Then I discovered Claimyr (claimyr.com) and it completely changed my experience. Their service got me connected to an actual SSA representative in about 15 minutes instead of the hours I was wasting before. They have a video showing how it works: https://youtu.be/Z-BRbJw3puU After speaking with SSA directly, I was able to explain issues with my consultative exam report and request additional consideration of my medical evidence. I definitely recommend having a way to actually speak with SSA throughout this process rather than just waiting in the dark.

One more important thing about your consultative exam - the doctor will observe you from the moment you enter until you leave. They notice how you walk in, if you need assistance sitting/standing, your ability to fill out forms, etc. This isn't to trick you, but to get a complete picture of your functioning. Many people with MS have what's called "invisible symptoms" that the standard quick tests don't capture well, like fatigue, cognitive issues, and pain. Make sure to verbalize these symptoms clearly since they won't be apparent in basic tests. Also, if you use any mobility aids regularly, bring and use them at the appointment.

Had my CE last month. The doctor was actually pretty thorough and kind. Don't go in assuming it's going to be terrible! Just answer honestly and be yourself. My decision is still pending but I felt the exam itself was fair.

IMPORTANT: The wait times after your CE can be EXCRUCIATING. My first application took 7 months after the CE to get a decision (denied, of course). Second time was 5 months. Third time with a lawyer was still 4 months. The SSA disability system is BROKEN and DESIGNED to wear you down. After your exam, you need to stay on top of your case. Call for updates regularly. If you can't get through, which is LIKELY, that's when many people use a call service to connect with SSA. The regular phone system is a JOKE.

One technical point about MS and SSDI that's important to understand: MS is one of the conditions listed in SSA's "Blue Book" Listing of Impairments (specifically 11.09). However, meeting this listing can be challenging as it requires specific documentation of: 1. Disorganization of motor function in two extremities resulting in extreme limitation in ability to stand up, balance, or use arms, OR 2. Marked limitation in physical functioning AND in one of the following: understanding/remembering/applying information; interacting with others; concentrating/persisting/maintaining pace; or adapting/managing oneself. This is why the consultative exam is important, but also why you should ensure all symptoms are thoroughly documented by your treating neurologist. The CE is one piece of evidence, but your ongoing specialist records often carry more weight.

I've been through the SSDI process with similar conditions and wanted to share a few practical tips for your CE tomorrow. First, wear comfortable clothes you can move in easily - they may ask you to do simple movements like raising your arms or walking. Second, if you take any pain medication, take it as you normally would - don't skip doses to "show how bad it is" because that can backfire. Third, bring a small notebook to jot down the doctor's name and what tests they performed right after your appointment while it's fresh in your memory. Most importantly, remember that this is just one step in the process. Even if the CE doesn't go perfectly, it's not the end of your case. The decision maker will consider all your medical evidence, not just this one exam. Try to get some rest tonight and remember that you're advocating for yourself and your health needs. You've got this!

As someone who's been through this process, I want to echo what others have said about being completely honest about your limitations. The CE doctor may not specialize in MS, so don't assume they understand how unpredictable your symptoms can be. Make sure to explain that MS fatigue isn't just being tired - it's a complete shutdown that can happen without warning. Also mention if you have heat sensitivity, as that's common with MS but not always obvious. The neuropathy pain in your legs and feet is something they can observe through reflex testing, but the burning, tingling, or numbness sensations need to be described clearly. Don't worry if you feel like you're repeating yourself - it's better to over-explain than leave important symptoms unmentioned. Remember, this exam is about documenting your current functional capacity, not proving you're "sick enough." You already know how your conditions affect your daily life, and that's what matters. Good luck tomorrow!

I went through a CE for my fibromyalgia and chronic fatigue last year, and I know how nerve-wracking it can be! A few things that helped me: arrive a little early so you're not rushed, and don't feel pressured to do any movement or test that will cause you significant pain or a flare-up. The doctor should understand if you need to stop or modify something. Also, if you have a support person who usually helps you with appointments, bring them along - they can wait in the waiting room and drive you home if the exam leaves you exhausted. One thing I wish I'd done was bring a list of my current medications with dosages, as the doctor asked about this and I couldn't remember everything clearly. Most importantly, remember that you deserve these benefits if your conditions prevent you from working. The CE is just a formality in the process, not a test you can "fail." Sending you positive thoughts for tomorrow!

I had my CE for MS and peripheral neuropathy about 8 months ago, so I totally understand your anxiety! The exam itself was actually less intimidating than I'd built it up to be. The doctor spent about 25 minutes with me - checked my reflexes (which were pretty diminished due to the neuropathy), tested my balance and coordination, had me walk heel-to-toe, and asked me to grip his hands to test strength. He also did some pin-prick sensation testing on my legs and feet. What really helped was that I kept a symptom diary for the week leading up to the exam, noting my pain levels, fatigue, and mobility each day. I brought it with me and was able to reference specific examples when he asked about my daily functioning. The doctor seemed to appreciate having concrete details rather than vague descriptions. One thing that surprised me - he spent more time asking about cognitive symptoms than I expected. MS brain fog is real and can be just as disabling as physical symptoms, so don't forget to mention memory issues, concentration problems, or word-finding difficulties if you experience them. The whole process felt more like a medical consultation than an interrogation. Just remember, you're not trying to convince anyone you're disabled - you're simply documenting how your conditions affect your ability to work. Best of luck tomorrow, you'll do great!