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Spinal Stimulators & Assessments

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5 years 10 months ago #212865 by bigcat
Spinal Stimulators & Assessments was created by bigcat
Does anyone know if DWP have any policy advice they give to assessors i.e. Atos to assessors examining people with Spinal Stimulator implants fitted. ? My daughter had a PIP assessment 30/4/18 and was asked to do some mobility exercises. The result of attempting these exercises resulted in a lot of pain never experienced before at the wire entry site. Hospital visit was needed,no infection which can be a problem but it was put down to over stretching .
My daughter suffered extra pain for 3 weeks with attempting what was asked in a very assertive manner by the assessor.She has said she will never do this again for a PIP assessment. I would like to warn others who may heva the device fitted to be careful and consider very carefully before trying to comply with the request.
I have asked Atos but no reply as yet. Wonder if there is a particular DWP dept i should write to,if anyone knows i would appreciate. Thanks.

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5 years 10 months ago #212874 by Gordon
Replied by Gordon on topic Spinal Stimulators & Assessments
Bigcat

I doubt that the DWP training is so detailed.

Certainly consider a complaint but be aware your daughter had the right to refuse the exercises if the were concerned it would cause them harm.

Gordon

Nothing on this board constitutes legal advice - always consult a professional about specific problems

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5 years 10 months ago #212882 by bigcat
Replied by bigcat on topic Spinal Stimulators & Assessments
Thanks. My daughter has had the implant for about a year. One or the other or even both of the exercises appear responsible. Bending forward whilst stood and whilst stood attempting to raise on toes. My daughter said she felt unsafe doing either but the HP said she would stand with her and hold her to steady her as she attempted. She will in future decline such and wishes she had at the time.The stimulator fitted is to relieve pain due to nerve damage in feet and legs.Warning to others perhaps? She felt unsafe doing but was reassured and not having had pain from site of implant in past because not attempted such activity in the year fitted bit of an unfortunate learning curve.
The following user(s) said Thank You: Gordon

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5 years 8 months ago #216047 by bigcat
Replied by bigcat on topic Spinal Stimulators & Assessments
We have now seen the assessors report, The assessor was an Occupational Therapist.
I am left thinking is hands on approach okay OT training wise and approved to do a physical movement check on a person who states they will have difficulty doing the exercises.To take hold physically and steady a person doing such. I appreciate OT will be fully qualified to observe and trained to do but to become physically involved concerns me especially with implants etc fitted where there is possibility of medical incident. Nurse,Physio and Paramedic I would feel comfortable being trained for such but i believe an OT role although medically related it is to help people with aids and suggestions to help improve quality of life and different to the other medical professions who would be able to render physical medical aid/assistance should it be so required. No response from DWP or Atos as yet. Any thoughts would be appreciated.

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5 years 8 months ago #216055 by Gordon
Replied by Gordon on topic Spinal Stimulators & Assessments
Bigat

If you have not had a Decision yet then you should certainly chase the DWP for an update.

Gordon

Nothing on this board constitutes legal advice - always consult a professional about specific problems
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