Some impairments are subject to temporary remissions, which can give the appearance
of medical improvement (MI) when in fact there has been none. These types of impairments
can appear to be in remission when, in fact, the impairments are only stabilized.
If the impairment is subject to temporary remissions, carefully consider the longitudinal
history of the impairment, including the occurrence of prior remissions and prospects
for future worsening, when deciding whether there has been any medical improvement.
Temporary improvements will not warrant a finding of MI.
NOTE: The wording concerning temporary remissions in the three relevant sections of the
regulations is slightly different, but the substance and intent is the same.