Back in Oct 2019, I started being seen for lower back pain. I was sent to physical therapy in January and did PT until March, when they told me there was nothing else they could do for me. My PCM then ordered xrays and an MRI for me. The MRI found I have a herniated disc and arthritis in my back. I was referred to pain management, where they did the nerve blocker and the RFA. As of now, the RFA is not working and it feels as though the pain has gotten worse. With my back pain, I cannot sit/stand for longer than 15min without pain, I can't wear any of my gear, and I cannot lift anything heavy. I've been on a temp profile preventing me from wearing any gear and rucking, as well as other limitations, since I have been seen in October. My pain management doctor told me I have reached MRDP, but I haven't been able to get in yet with PCM to discuss starting a MEB. However, my question is, if it does get started and everything gets sent up, what are my chances of being found fit or unfit? I currently work in an intel MOS, not sure if that's relevant. Ultimately, I want the MEB because the pain isn't worth it anymore
Fit/Unfit
- Thread starter squiiiib
- Start date
Your question can't be answered because there are lots of medical details regarding back pain yet to be answered. How will being out of the military change your pain?
I think you are too far ahead here your pcm may not agree with a meb its not entirely your choice
First off I don't want to discourage you from seeking medical assistance, you are doing the right thing and should continue to request treatment.
My advice though, would be to not "ask" for an MEB. I would just ask your Doc what is the next step, since they have already determined MRDP.
Just asking for an MEB may make your Docs think you are just seeking benefits. Let them suggest it, it will go a lot better for you.
My advice though, would be to not "ask" for an MEB. I would just ask your Doc what is the next step, since they have already determined MRDP.
Just asking for an MEB may make your Docs think you are just seeking benefits. Let them suggest it, it will go a lot better for you.
I understand that. I guess I worded it that way because my PCM is the one who initially mentioned starting the MEB. My last appt with him was before my RFA, and he wanted me to ask them if I had reached MRDP, and if so, he wanted to talk MEB with me. That’s also what he put in his notes in my health record (I checked online just to reconfirm).
He’s the one who brought it up initially, not myself. I know to not ask for one in a way, and I haven’t. At my last appt with him, he wanted me to follow up with him after my RFA to discuss MEB if pain management said I had reached MRDP.