Can examiner test range of motion during C&P exam

Question:

Hello Jim! I requested an increase for Cervical Spine herniated disc, currently at 20% for that. The C&P Exam was completed a couple of days ago and I was very disappointed with the VA contract examiner. I have very limited range of motion in my neck. My question is, are the examiners nowadays permitted to assist or manipulate the affected body part during the examination process? This practice didn’t happen on my previous exams. Please advise. Thank you.

Jim's Reply:

I could argue that both ways. No, an examiner is not permitted to manipulate a body part causing you pain and maybe injury. Yes, the examiner is permitted to manipulate a body part to determine range of motion as long as there is no actual injury. So whether or not that was right or wrong, it happened. Now what? I hear this often and my advice is always the same...forget about it. There's nothing you can do that won't make it worse. Wait for the decision about your claim and if you aren't happy, you appeal. During the appeal process is when we bring up inadequate exams.