Should I contact PIP about my MRI results?

matrix68

Good morning. 

                      I’ve just had my results from a MRI scan . I currently receive PIP at the lower rates for both daily living allowance and mobility . My results are as follows facet arthropathy changes at C7-T1 level (neck) resulting in mid to moderate left exiting neural foraminal Calibre  stenosis and facet arthropathy with left central disc extrusion at L4-L5 level ,resulting in a severe lateral recess calibre stenosis with compression of the L5 root . All in all my mobility has reduced me to numerous days without being able to leave the house due to the pain and on occasion loss of feeling in my fingers and unable to walk (I generally use a stick ). 
     I’ve been advised by a friend to contact PIP and make them aware of the update from my MRI results. I was wondering if anyone else has had any of the above and what your long term diagnosis is/was . Obviously I’m aware everyone’s symptoms vary. Has surgery helped you ? I’m awaiting an appointment with spinal orthopaedics to determine the next step. I was also wondering is there any point to contacting PIP ,if surgery could fix my current situation ? As I hate dealing with these people as I have at times been made to feel a liar and questioned my own answers even though I was medically retired from work some 6 years ago due to a long term back injury . 

Thank you 

poppy123456

Hi,

The results from the MRI doesn't automatically entitle you to a higher PIP awarded based it's not based on a diagnosis. What matters is how those conditions affect you against the 12 PIP acitivities. You must also expect the conditions to last at least a further 9 months. If surgery is possible i would think they would only do this if there's a chance your conditions will improve so again the 9 month forward test could be in question here.

If you ring DWP and report the changes they will send you more forms to fill out for another assessment. Doing this you could risk losing everything you already have and you really should get expert advice before doing anything else. Start here. https://advicelocal.uk/

matrix68

Thanks for the information much appreciated 

L_Volunteer

Hi @matrix68

Thanks for your response. The information is the very least we could provide you with. How are you feeling about things? Please remember we are here for you and listening to you if you need anything! 

Alex_Alumni

Hello and welcome @matrix68 I hope we've been able to reassure you about your query, let us know if you're still unsure of anything.

As @L_Volunteer says, we're here to support you if you do need to reach out for any reason, so don't hesitate to ask.

Alex