DLA form: Ability to walk

Hi

When answering the questions about ability to walk, if there's a difference in what I can do with and without painkillers, which do I put down? I'm taking three different prescription painkillers round the clock, but I'm still in 'severe discomfort' before I start walking. Without painkillers I'd be in 'severe pain' before I start walking, effectively I wouldn't be able to walk at all.

Which is the right one to put down - what I can do without painkillers, or with them?

TIA for your help.

Hi Gordon

Thank you for your response. I'm not sure I understand it.

I take the meds to alleviate the pain, as far as they do, they don't prevent it, but in reaction to it as it's constant otherwise.

It seems I should describe my walking as I'm on the meds permanently, but back it up with a description of my situation without them.

Gordon

I get it now - thank you.

Amasis

Hi Amasis

I have filled out these forms and I agree they really have you confused to say the least. I was advised to think about how you are "most days" how many steps do you take before your pain increases (I take it your in pain before you attempt to walk)? Can you walk unaided? Do you use walking sticks? The support of another person? All these things are important when completing the form, I know its difficult however if you think about yourself as an observer of your pain lots of things come to mind. It doesn't matter if you end up giving them lots of info, include things that you may think are not relevant because they may be relevant to the decision maker!

Good luck, Heather