Can I get Social Security disability for my radiculopathy?
Yes, you can. There are two ways to get Social Security Disability for your radiculopathy. The first way is to show that you meet Social Security’s specific listing on radiculopathy and the second way is to show that due to your physical restrictions there are no jobs available in the US economy which you would be able to do on a full time basis.
Is cervical radiculopathy considered a disability?
Cervical radiculopathy (CR), while less common than conditions with neck pain alone, can be a significant cause of neck pain and disability; thus the determination of adequate treatment options for patients is essential. Currently, inadequate scientific literature restricts specific conservative management recommendations for CR.
Can cervical radiculopathy cause disability?
The Medical-Vocational Guidelines (grids) may help you be found disabled if you are age 50 or older and your cervical radiculopathy has affected your ability to lift and carry. During my Social Security Disability hearings, clients with cervical radiculopathy are often asked the below questions: What makes your cervical pain and numbness better?
What conditions automatically qualify for disability?
You may also qualify for SSDI benefits if you suffer from one of the following conditions:
- Consistent migraines
- Autoimmune system disorders like Lupus
- Digestive system disorders like Crohn’s disease or irritable bowel syndrome
- Genitourinary system disorders like kidney disease
- Respiratory system disorders like emphysema, asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, or COPD
Can I get disability for radiculopathy?
If you have been suffering from lumbar radiculopathy (nerve root compression), you may be eligible for long term disability benefits. Lumbar radiculopathy is a painful and debilitating condition that can cause muscle weakness, loss of mobility, tingling, sensory loss, and decreased reflexes.
How do you prove radiculopathy?
Your doctor may take several steps to diagnose radiculopathy:A physical exam and physical tests may be used to check your muscle strength and reflexes. ... Imaging tests, such as an X-ray, CT scan or MRI scan, are used to better see the structures in the problem area.More items...
Is a pinched nerve considered a disability?
The Social Security Administration (SSA) recognizes that severe nerve root compression can be debilitating, and as a result, the agency has created an official impairment listing in its "Blue Book" of impairments.
What spine disorders qualify for disability?
3 Back Conditions That May Qualify for Social Security DisabilityScoliosis;Herniated or bulging discs;One or more fractured vertebrae;Degenerative joint disease; or.Facet arthritis.
What is the most common radiculopathy?
Radiculopathy can occur in any part of the spine but the most common site of radiculopathy is the cervical (Cervical Radiculopathy) and the lumbar spine (Lumbar Radiculopathy). It is less commonly found in the middle portion of the spine (thoracic radiculopathy). Certain injuries can also lead to radiculopathy.
Can you see radiculopathy on MRI?
Background. MRI is considered to be the diagnostic tool of choice in diagnosing nerve root compromise among patients presenting with clinical suspicion of lumbo-sacral radiculopathy.
Can you get Social Security with pinched nerve?
This type of back pain from a pinched nerve is included in the Social Security Administration's (SSA) Blue Book of qualifying impairments, but you must provide the SSA with proof of your condition to secure approval for your Disability benefits application.
Is lumbar radiculopathy permanent?
If it's not treated, myelopathy can worsen over time and cause permanent damage to your nerves. Radiculopathy is a temporary issue that heals over time and often goes away without treatment. It can be hard to tell what's causing your pain.
Is nerve damage in the back a disability?
Compression of the root nerve in the back is one of the few physical disorders of back pain that are counted as disability in the Blue Book of Impairments.
Is it hard to get disability for back problems?
Back problems are one of the most common reasons people apply for Social Security disability benefits. However, getting approved for disability due to back pain is difficult because most back pain claims are based largely on pain.
Does bulging discs qualify for disability?
A VA rating for a herniated or a bulging disc will not automatically qualify you for disability benefits, but it may be able to be used as evidence to back up your disability claim. You can qualify for both VA disability benefits and Social Security disability benefits.
Is chronic back pain considered a disability?
To qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits, chronic back pain sufferers must prove they have a medically determinable impairment. Additionally, the impairment must last or be expected to last for a minimum of one year.
Can radiculopathy be seen on xray?
In most cases, radiculopathy can be diagnosed with a thorough medical examination. However, further testing may be necessary to determine the cause of the radiculopathy. Possible tests include: X-ray (also known as plain films): test that uses invisible electromagnetic energy beams (X-rays) to produce images of bones.
Is radiculopathy a symptom or a diagnosis?
myelopathy. Both radiculopathy and myelopathy are painful conditions involving your spine. Radiculopathy is a temporary issue caused by a pinched nerve root near your spine. Myelopathy is compression of your spinal cord caused by a trauma, tumor, degenerative disease or infection.
How can you tell the difference between radiculopathy and neuropathy?
Although both deal with nerve damage, the difference comes down to the location of the problem. If there is damage at or near the nerve's root along the spine, it is considered radiculopathy. Neuropathy is damage outside of the spinal cord in the peripheral nerves.
How do they test for cervical radiculopathy?
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is the most common imaging study used when checking for cervical radiculopathy because it shows nerves and other soft tissues, such as herniated discs, so clearly.
How do you prove you are disabled due to radiculopathy?
You can still prove you are disabled due to your radiculopathy by showing that your combination of symptoms would make you unemployable. Method 2 – No Jobs You Can Do: You can get disability for your radiculopathy if you show that the symptoms from your radiculopathy along with any other health conditions you have would make you unemployable.
How to prove you are disabled?
You have to collect medical records and submit them to social security and you have to get opinions from doctors that prove your inability to work. We can help you get all this information and improve your chances of getting social security disability benefits. If you would like help proving you are entitled to social security disability due to your radiculopathy, feel free to call us for help.
What do you need to prove there are no jobs you could do?
In order to prove there are no jobs you could do, you need medical documentation from your doctors of all of your medical conditions. This means you need to make an effort to get regular treatment to document your condition over time. Further, it is helpful to get statements from your doctors on how your medical condition limits your ability to work. This can include a letter from the doctor or simply having your doctor fill out a questionnaire on your condition. Doctors often do not comment on your ability to work in their office notes because they’re focused on treating you rather than commenting on your ability work. It helps to ask your doctor’s opinion on your ability to work. Our firm often gives our clients questionnaires to take to treating physicians to document your symptoms and how they would limit your ability to work. We have developed questionnaires over time that ask the questions we have found are helpful in proving your case.
Why don't doctors comment on your ability to work?
Doctors often do not comment on your ability to work in their office notes because they’re focused on treating you rather than commenting on your ability work.
How does Social Security determine if you can work?
Social Security will look at things like how much you can lift or how long you can stand, walk, and sit in a day to determine if jobs are available that you could do.
What is Radiculopathy?
There are nerves that run from your spinal cord to different parts of the body. The spinal cord is protected by bones called vertebrae, which form your spine. But when your vertebrae suffer trauma, they can cause compression, impingement, and irritation of the nerve roots that are located in the spinal column. This trauma can occur due to injury, aging, or other conditions. Because these nerves run throughout the body, including the arms and legs, impingement and irritation of the nerve roots in the spine can cause radiculopathy (i.e., pain, weakness, or numbness) stemming from the spine and into the arms and legs. Thus, although radiculopathy stems from the spine, it can cause debilitating pain throughout the entire body.
How to diagnose radiculopathy?
Radiculopathy can be diagnosed through a physical exam of your spine, muscles, and reflexes to determine which movements cause pain. X-rays, CT scans, and MRIs can also help identify issues in the spine that could be causing the impingement and compression of the nerve roots.
What causes radiculopathy in the spine?
Some causes include herniated discs, degenerative disc disease, spinal stenosis, bone spurs, tumors, and fractures.
What is the best treatment for radiculopathy?
Common surgeries for radiculopathy include spinal decompression surgery, spinal fusion, foraminotomy, or disc replacement surgery .
Can radiculopathy be severe?
Many people suffer from radiculopathy. While for some the pain associated with radiculopathy is mild, for others it can be severe and prevent them from working . At Chisholm Chisholm & Kilpatrick LTD, our team knows how to handle long-term disability (LTD) claims for radiculopathy.
Is radiculopathy more significant on one side?
Typically , radiculopathy is more significant on one side. Pain and tingling sensations in your torso region could be indicative of thoracic radiculopathy, while pain in your lower extremities and pain while walking or sitting could be indicative of lumbar radiculopathy.
Can physical therapy help with radiculopathy?
For more severe cases, physical therapy can provide patients with the ability to independently complete certain tasks, such as the daily activities performed at home. Although physical therapy is a common treatment, your specific therapy regiment will likely be dependent on the region of the spine that is causing your radiculopathy as well as your ...
What to do if you can't work due to cervical radiculopathy?
If you are unable to work due to your cervical radiculopathy, file a claim for disability benefits as soon as possible and give the Bishop Law Firm a call. We want to help!
What causes radiculopathy in the neck?
Cervical radiculopathy can be caused by trauma, degenerative changes or anything that puts pressure on the nerve root. While you may have neck pain, you may also have symptoms in your hands. You can have radicular symptoms such as numbness, ...
What are the symptoms of arachnoiditis?
The subjective evidence of pain, numbness, limitation of motion and motor loss are symptoms that should be reported to your doctor. In my practice, I have rarely seen someone who suffers from arachnoiditis or pseudoclaudication. Pain, limitation of motion of the spine or motor loss are much more common symptoms.
Can you be disabled if you are 50?
Even if you do not meet Listing 1.04, your disability claim could still be approved on the grid rules . The Medical-Vocational Guidelines (grids) may help you be found disabled if you are age 50 or older and your cervical radiculopathy has affected your ability to lift and carry.
Can radicular pain cause numbness?
You can have radicular symptoms such as numbness, tingling and loss of coordination in your fingers in your upper extremity. If you are having lower extremity pain (lumbar radiculopathy), that may be related to your lumbar spine. Read Back Pain and Social Security Disability. Pain medication, steroids, collars or physical therapy (cervical ...
How much disability does a veteran get for radiculopathy?
A veteran can receive up to a 40 percent VA disability rating for Radiculopathy of a lower extremity. Furthermore, a veteran may receive separate VA ratings of 40% for each lower extremity, depending upon the severity of symptoms. VA ratings for Radiculopathy of the left lower and right lower extremities are typically rated under diagnostic code ...
What is Radiculopathy for VA Disability Rating Purposes?
Your spine is made up of many bones called vertebrae, and your spinal cord runs through a canal in the center of these bones.
What causes radiculopathy in the spine?
Less common causes of radiculopathy include spinal infections and various cancerous and noncancerous growths in the spine that may press against the nerve roots.
How many types of radiculopathy are there in veterans?
Four Types of Radiculopathy in Veterans. Radiculopathy can have many different signs and symptoms as well as different names depending on where in the spine it occurs. The spine consists of four (4) primary regions from your neck (cervical spine) down to your buttocks and pelvic area (sacral spine).
What is cervical radiculopathy?
Cervical radiculopathy describes a compressed nerve root in the neck (cervical spine).
What is VA disability rating?
A veterans VA disability rating for Radiculopathy depends upon the frequency, severity, and duration of symptoms, meaning the more severe your symptoms, the higher the VA rating for Radiculopathy. The Radiculopathy VA rating criteria also depends upon Paralysis, Neuritis, or Neuralgia, as well as the location/region, ...
What is the VA rating for radiculopathy in 2021?
In 2021, VA ratings for Radiculopathy typically range from 0% to 70%, depending upon the severity of your symptoms.
What is the VA code for radiculopathy?
Radiculopathy is most often rated under CFR 38, Part 4, VA Schedule of Ratings, diagnostic codes 8510, 8610, and 8710 for the upper and middle radicular groups.
What is the focus of disability claim based on neck pain?
The focus of any disability claim based on neck pain is on the underlying condition that is causing the neck pain and/or neck problems. Establishing proof of the root causes of neck pain should be the focus of the medical information section of an application for benefits. This is done via the medical records, as ones neck pain is but a symptom of the underlying causes of neck problems.
How to find out if you qualify for SSDI?
To find out if you are eligible, schedule an appointment with The Good Law Group right away. We have helped a huge number of people to successfully apply for;SSDI. When you meet a member of our team for a case evaluation, we will let you know whether your case of Cervical Radiculopathy is likely to meet the eligibility requirements for receiving SSDI.
Do you need a lawyer to file a disability claim?
Claimants who have legal representation are much more likely to be approved for disability benefits. Disability lawyers know how to proceed with the claim and what evidence is needed to show the severity of a medical problem and get your case approved. Your attorney will gather supporting documentation and will review your file to make sure the SSA has access to the records that tell them the severity of your condition and how you are affected.
Can you get disability if you have severe pain?
Reports of severe pain are not enough to meet the requirements for disability benefits. You need objective evidence such as a physical evaluation of your range of motion and ability to perform work activities. The results of imaging tests used in your diagnoses, such as a CT or MRI scan, may also help you qualify for benefits. If you are using an assistive device or have made changes to your daily activities you may consider using a sworn statement to support your case.
Is arachnoiditis a medical condition?
Social Security has removed a related medical listing from the musculoskeletal listings: the listing for “spinal arachnoiditis.” Arachnoiditis is a painful disorder caused by inflammation in the spine. Someone with cervical arachnoiditis might feel severe stinging and burning pain . Arachnoiditis is often caused by complications from spinal procedures, but it can also be caused by cervical stenosis or disc disease. Social Security says that arachnoiditis should now be analyzed under the neurological listings, specifically listing 11.08 for spinal cord disorders. For more information, see our article on getting disability for spinal arachnoiditis.
What Is Lumbar Radiculopathy?
Radiculopathy refers to the symptoms that sometimes occur when the nerve root is compressed. The nerve in the spine can be compressed for a variety of reasons, including degenerated disks and herniated disks.
Why do older people have lumbar radiculopathy?
Older people, usually 60 years old or more, are at a greater likelihood of developing lumbar radiculopathy because they’ve had the most time for their disks to compress.
What are the best medications for lumbar radiculopathy?
For instance, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, steroids, muscle relaxants, and analgesics are all possible medications.
Do you need an MRI for disability?
While having an MRI, CT scan, myelography, or X-rays can support the doctor’s findings, one of these tests are not absolutely necessary for approval for disability benefits.
Why would you ever want to be denied for radiculopathy?
Why would you ever want to be denied for radiculopathy? If there is a big bad disability that will get you more money per month, you’d want that instead. Degenerative Disc Disease, Rheumatoid Arthritis, and Gulf War Syndrome all have the capability of a higher rating. They are also more likely to be ruled Permanent and Total, which means you don’t have to go back and re-apply and risk losing your benefits every 5-10 years.
How to rate radiculopathy?
Which limbs are numb or paralyzed and to what extent is how the rating is given. The nice thing about this is that while you only have one back, you can get multiple ratings for a left leg and a right leg which can then be combined into a greater rating. The back pain is rated separately, so you could have a 40% rating on your back , 20% on your right let and 10% on your left leg which would make a combined rating of 60% with the bilateral factor thrown in.
How much does a VA disability cost?
If you have been honorably discharged and have joint or back pain, you can probably get the minimum 10% rating for a disability. That will bring in about $144 a month based on the current VA rating schedule. It’s not much, but it’s a start. You might be able to pay for some heating pads or some visits to the chiropractor/spa with that. There are a lot of other back conditions that can get you a higher rating and therefore more money per month from the VA.
What is the minimum disability for back pain?
The general minimum for undiagnosed back pain veterans’ disability benefits is 10%. These diagnosed and service-connected disabilities can get you a higher rating. While not all of these are exclusive back pains, they can all point to conditions in the spine that would warrant a higher VA rating.
Does radiculopathy affect arms?
Thoracic radiculopathy is going to be a lot scarier but won’t affect you in the same way. The pain usually radiates around your ribs and into your chest. It doesn’t affect your arms and legs as much as it affects your whole trunk.
Can diabetes cause radiculopathy?
Sometimes diabetes or arthritis can cause radiculopathy in addition to direct spine injuries. The different nerves in your back are grouped together and carry different VA rating schedules. Depending on the loss of feeling in your elbow vs. your dominant hand, you might get a different VA rating.
Can radiculopathy cause back pain?
Sometimes, there is little to no back pain with radiculopathy. While the injury is in the back joints, the symptoms show up in your hands and feet. You may have another disability like diabetes or arthritis instead, so make sure you get a full physical from a doctor.
How to contact radiculopathy disability?
Call our office today at 877-583-2524 to talk about your radiculopathy disability, your disability insurance policy and how we can help protect your claim. If you have already filed a claim and it has been denied, you have a limited amount of time to appeal your claim so do not delay.
What is cervical radiculopathy?
Cervical or lumbar radiculopathy is the clinical term used to describe the condition when the nerves in the spine are compressed or pinched. The pain of cervical or lumbar radiculopathy is not like a simple backache or stiff neck.
What is the spinal root?
The nerve root is the portion of the nerve that runs through the bony canal and exits at each vertebral segment of the spinal cord. There are 31 pairs of spinal nerves and roots along the canal consist of cervical, thoracic, lumbar, sacral and coccygeal nerves. When the spinal root is inflamed, through injury or illness, the damage can lead to a complete loss of motion function below the location of the afflicted spinal root. It can also create severe pain that does not permit the person to go about their tasks of daily living.
How does cervical radiculopathy affect work?
How Cervical or Lumbar Radiculopathy Can Affect Your Work. It is debilitating and people with severe radiculopathy have trouble walking, standing up, laying down and moving. It is next to impossible to find a comfortable position. If their work requires them to stand up and hover over a patient like a dentist, they cannot do so.
What is the number to call for spinal nerve root diagnosis?
If you have already filed for a long-term disability insurance claim concerning a spinal nerve root diagnosis and your claim has been denied or terminated, call our office at 877-583-2524 to talk about your diagnosis, your disability insurance policy and how we can help protect your claim.
What happens when the spinal cord is inflamed?
When the spinal root is inflamed, through injury or illness, the damage can lead to a complete loss of motion function below the location of the afflicted spinal root. It can also create severe pain that does not permit the person to go about their tasks of daily living.
Do disability companies cover radiculopathy?
Disability insurance companies are vigilant about radiculopathy claims. They insist in a large number of radiological tests to prove that there is any kind of a spinal injury.
