Spine Disorders and Qualifying for Social Security Disability Benefits
Spine disorders can cause debilitating pain and limit an individual’s ability to work. If you suffer from a spine disorder, you may be eligible for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits. The Social Security Administration (SSA) maintains a listing of qualifying medical conditions in its Blue Book.
The musculoskeletal disorders section of the Blue Book lists a number of spine disorders that may qualify for SSDI benefits. The following are examples of spine disorders that may be eligible for benefits:
Degenerative Disc Disease Degenerative disc disease is a condition that occurs when the discs between the vertebrae of the spine break down. This can cause chronic pain, numbness, and weakness in the back and extremities. To qualify for SSDI benefits, medical evidence must show that the condition causes significant limitations in your ability to work.
Spinal Arachnoiditis Spinal arachnoiditis is a rare condition that occurs when the arachnoid membrane surrounding the spinal cord becomes inflamed. This can cause chronic pain, numbness, and tingling in the back and extremities. To qualify for SSDI benefits, medical evidence must show that the condition causes significant limitations in your ability to work.
Lumbar Spinal Stenosis Lumbar spinal stenosis is a condition that occurs when the spinal canal narrows, putting pressure on the nerve roots that travel through it. This can cause chronic pain, weakness, and numbness in the back and extremities. To qualify for SSDI benefits, medical evidence must show that the condition causes significant limitations in your ability to work.
Nerve Root Compression Nerve root compression occurs when a nerve root becomes compressed or pinched, causing pain, numbness, and weakness in the back and extremities. To qualify for SSDI benefits, medical evidence must show that the condition causes significant limitations in your ability to work.
Medical Criteria for SSDI Benefits To qualify for SSDI benefits, you must meet the medical criteria established by the SSA. This includes providing medical evidence of your spine disorder, such as medical records, test results, and imaging studies. In addition, your medical evidence must show that your condition significantly limits your ability to work.
The SSA evaluates your ability to work based on your residual functional capacity (RFC), which is a measure of your ability to perform work-related tasks. To determine your RFC, the SSA will consider factors such as your ability to stand, walk, lift, and carry.
If your RFC indicates that you are unable to perform your past work or any other work that exists in significant numbers in the national economy, you may qualify for SSDI benefits.
Free Case Evaluation If you suffer from a spine disorder and are unable to work, you may be eligible for SSDI benefits. The process of applying for benefits can be complicated and time-consuming. An experienced SSDI lawyer can help you navigate the process and ensure that your application contains all the necessary medical evidence to support your claim.
At the same time, it is essential to obtain competent medical evidence, medical records and support from treating physicians. That being said, it is important to note that legal representation is not required to apply for SSDI benefits. If you choose to apply on your own, the SSA provides free assistance with the application process.
If you have questions about your eligibility for SSDI benefits or need help with your application, contact a Social Security Disability lawyer today for a free case evaluation.
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