SSA Bluebook definition: Musculoskeletal Systems
This listing covers disorders related to bone or joint deformity, spine problems, back injuries, major dysfunction of a joints due to any cause, reconstructive surgery or surgical arthrodesis of a major weight-bearing joint, disorders of the spine, amputation (due to any cause), broken bones or fracture of the femur, tibia, pelvis, or one or more of the tarsal bones, fracture of an upper extremity, soft tissue injury (e.g., burns).
Assessing Your Musculoskeletal Disability in Olympia
When it comes to assessing your musculoskeletal disability in Olympia, the Social Security Administration will look for what functional limitations prevent you from working. During the application process, your past work history will be relevant, as this can shed some light on what types of work you may be qualified to perform; for example, those with significant mobility limitations may be unable to return to working on a construction site.
Below you will find an overview of the conditions covered in the Social Security Administration’s Blue Book listing for Musculoskeletal System disorders.
Spinal Disorders
Those living with herniated disks, spinal stenosis, spinal arachnoiditis, arthritis, or fractured vertebrae are frequently incapable of performing substantial gainful activities. In some cases, this is due simply to the extreme pain associated with their condition. However, it can be difficult to quantify pain in a way that the Social Security Administration can assess for disability benefits. Working closely with a qualified attorney and medical professionals can help a claimant with a spinal disorder procure the necessary evidence and present their case.
Amputation
While all amputees are likely to experience a drastic change in their lifestyle depending on their circumstances, the Social Security Administration may not recognize this as an inability to work. The SSA will consider which limb was affected by amputation and whether that affects the claimants ability to return to work, keeping their previous occupational experience in mind. Most often, candidates who live with profound physical limitations which hinder their ability to complete typical daily tasks (dressing, cooking, or bathing independently) are considered good candidates for disability benefits.
Fractures
The Social Security Administration only considers applicants whose condition is expected to last at least a year or until death. While most bone fractures can be healed within a year, some breaks are more serious and/or cause complications for the individual that make a disability claim possible. Those who suffer damage to their pelvic bone, tarsal bones, or femur may need longer down time, especially if their line of work requires significant physical activity. A doctor’s opinion on the length of time needed for recovery and rehabilitation is crucial to winning a disability case involving a fracture.
Joint Dysfunction
Those living with gout, fibromyalgia, bursitis, osteoporosis, inflammation, arthritis, and other joint-affecting conditions may be able to qualify for Social Security Benefits. For many suffering with joint conditions in Olympia, pain is a primary factor in the decision to seek disability benefits. As in all claims, a person’s symptoms must be confirmed by significant medical evidence. A dedicated lawyer can help sort through the paperwork and see to it that the necessary reports, test results, and documentation is provided to support your claim.
Our Social Security Disability Lawyer Near Olympia Can Help
Are you planning to apply for Social Security disability in Washington, or need to make an appeal on a denied claim? Our Social Security disability lawyer can help assess your claim and strengthen it for better odds of approval. To discuss your disability or claim with us, please call 253-274-0500 for your free consultation.