Can You Receive Social Security Disability Benefits for Your Back Disorder?
My name is Kaitlin Wildoner, and I’m an attorney who helps disabled clients obtain their disability benefits as quickly as possible so they can focus on getting better. In this video, we will discuss receiving Social Security disability benefits for back disorder.
Understanding How Back Disorders Qualify for Disability Benefits
The Social Security Administration has a Listing of Impairments, commonly referred to as the Blue Book. This Blue Book outlines various medical conditions that may qualify for disability benefits.
Meeting the Blue Book Criteria
One way to qualify for disability benefits is if your back disorder meets the specific criteria that’s outlined in the Blue Book. This typically will include evidence of:
- Spinal nerve root compression
- Lumbar spinal stenosis
- Other spinal disorders resulting in chronic pain, limited motion, and functional limitations
The Role of Medical Evidence
The Social Security Administration will often require objective medical evidence such as:
- Imaging (including X-rays, MRI scans, CT scans)
- Clinical examinations
- Treatment records
This evidence should demonstrate the severity and the functional limitations caused by your condition.
Work Limitations and Duration Requirements
To be eligible for Social Security disability benefits, your back disorder must significantly limit your ability to perform basic work-related activities. This includes:
- Sitting
- Standing
- Walking
- Lifting
- Carrying
- Bending
- Other physical movements required for employment
Your back disorder must also be expected to last for at least 12 months or result in death to meet the Social Security Administration’s duration requirement.
Residual Functional Capacity (RFC)
The Social Security Administration can also assess your residual functional capacity (RFC), which is an evaluation of your ability to perform work-related activities despite your back disorder.
The RFC assessment considers:
- Medical evidence
- Limitations in sitting, standing, walking, and other physical activities
- The impact of pain, medication, and side effects
Importance of Comprehensive Medical Documentation
Providing comprehensive medical documentation is critical for a successful Social Security disability claim. This includes:
- Diagnosis
- Treatment history
- Medication usage
- Surgical interventions
- Physical therapy
- Any other relevant medical documentation related to your back disorder
Additional Factors: Age, Education, and Work History
While specific back disorders are evaluated based on the medical criteria in the Blue Book, the Social Security Administration can also consider:
- Your age
- Your education
- Your work history
These factors may affect your ability to adapt to other types of work.
Work Closely with Your Doctors
It’s important to work closely with your treating physicians and medical professionals who can provide and document medical evidence and otherwise support your disability claim. Their opinions and expertise can significantly strengthen your case.
Thanks so much for watching!
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