What Back and Spine Disorders Qualify for Social Security Disability?

 Posted on February 21, 2022 in Social Security Disability

There are a variety of physical issues that can result in a person suffering pain and discomfort, affecting their ability to perform daily tasks and maintain employment. Injuries or disorders that affect the back and spine can be especially difficult to cope with, and they may lead to chronic pain, limitations on the types of movements a person can perform, or even paralysis in certain parts of the body. In some cases, back and spine disorders may be so severe that they prevent a person from working and completing other daily tasks that will allow them to care for themselves and address their ongoing needs. Those who suffer from these conditions may be able to receive disability benefits through Social Security, and they will need to understand the requirements they will need to meet to qualify for financial assistance.

Disability Benefits for Musculoskeletal Disorders Affecting the Spine

A person will be considered to be disabled if they meet the requirements defined in the Listing of Impairments provided by Social Security. These listings address multiple types of physical and mental conditions, including disorders of the spine and back. Most musculoskeletal disorders affecting the spine fall under the classification of “disorders of the skeletal spine resulting in compromise of nerve roots.” 

Back and spine disorders that may be included in this classification include degenerative disc disease, osteoarthritis/spondylosis, slipped or herniated discs, dislocations of joints in the spine, or fractured vertebrae. When these issues place pressure on the spinal cord, they may lead to ongoing pain, loss of sensation, or partial paralysis. To demonstrate that these issues have led to a disability, a person will need to provide documentation of all of the following:

• Sensations, tingling, pain, or muscle fatigue radiating from the part of the spine that is affected to other parts of the body.

• Weakness in affected muscles, symptoms of irritation or compression of nerves in the spinal cord, and either decreased sensation or decreased deep tendon reflexes.

• Imaging tests such as X-rays, CT scans, or MRIs showing that nerves have been compromised in the cervical vertebrae in the neck or the lumbar or sacral vertebrae in the lower back.

• Impairments in musculoskeletal functions that require a person to use a walker, canes or crutches for both arms, a wheelchair requiring the use of both hands, one-handed assistive devices such as a cane or crutch in combination with limitation on the use of one hand or arm to perform work-related tasks, or limitations on the use of both upper extremities to complete gross or fine motor activities.

While the requirements for a condition affecting the back and spine to be considered a disability are extensive, a person may still be able to receive disability benefits if they do not meet all of these requirements. In these cases, a person will need to demonstrate that their condition has caused them to be unable to perform work that they have done in the past while also preventing them from finding employment in other types of positions that may be available based on their physical limitations.

Contact Our Chicago Social Security Disability Lawyer

If you suffer from chronic back pain, degenerative disc disease, or other conditions that have affected your ability to work, Attorney Jonathan Pearson can help you determine whether you qualify for Social Security disability benefits. He will work with you during the disability application process and help you address any issues that may arise. To schedule a free consultation, contact our Illinois Social Security disability benefits attorney at 312-999-0999.

Source:

https://www.ssa.gov/disability/professionals/bluebook/1.00-Musculoskeletal-Adult.htm