From multiple sclerosis (MS) to anxiety, there are many different injuries and illnesses that can qualify you for Social Security Disability (SSD) benefits. You can find all of these conditions listed in the Social Security Administration’s (SSA) Blue Book. These conditions are categorized under different sections, including the musculoskeletal system.
It’s important to understand that even if you have a condition that’s listed in the SSA Blue Book, you do not automatically qualify for SSD benefits. This is because SSD is intended for those who are unable to work. The benefit program helps these individuals by providing them with income to help with the cost of living expenses. But while many people with these conditions are unable to work, others with the same condition are still able to maintain employment.
The existence of musculoskeletal conditions is a pre-requisite for benefits, but the individual must also prove that the condition impacts his or her ability to work. These types of conditions tend to impact your ability to move, concentrate, ad perform tasks for work.
Musculoskeletal conditions are separate into four different categories:
1. Amputations
Amputations are life-changing and can impact your daily life in many ways. But having an amputation is generally not enough to qualify for SSD benefits. The SSA usually requires that the individual has suffered at least to amputations, although there are always exceptions. In addition to proof of the amputation(s) alone, an applicant must prove that prosthetics would not be enough to enable you to perform your work tasks as you did before.
2. Fractures
When we think of experiencing a fracture, we don’t often automatically think of SSD. However, not only can fractures be extremely painful, but they can also often prevent the individual from being able to complete his or her work. Therefore an individual can qualify for SSD benefits with a fracture only if he or she can show that the fracture is likely to make working impossible for at least a year.
3. Joint Disorders
Joint disorders can be extremely serious when they impact the ankles, knees, hips, wrists, elbows, or shoulders. This is because these joints in particular have great influence on whether you are capable of pulling, pushing, lifting, walking, standing, or sitting. However, those who are still able to engage in work-related tasks – even with a reasonable accommodation – will not qualify for SSD benefits.
4. Spinal Disorders
Anything involving the spine can be extremely dangerous. Spinal disorders often cause people difficulty with concentrating, standing, sitting, and moving often leading to difficulty completing work-related tasks.
The existence of musculoskeletal conditions can be proven through the results of a medical imaging test (e.g. CT scan). Luckily, many musculoskeletal conditions get better with time. For that reason you must also be able to demonstrate that your condition already has or is expected to last for at least one year despite following prescribed treatments.
The Las Vegas SSD Attorneys at Roeschke Law, LLC Can Help
If you or a loved one is struggling with a disability that interferes with your ability to work, you may not know how to proceed. Fortunately, the attorneys at Roeschke Law, LLC can help. We understand the impact that a disability can have on your physical, emotional, and financial health. That’s why it’s our mission to help you. To learn more, or to schedule a consultation, contact us today!