DEGENERATIVE DISC DISEASE & SSDI BENEFITS

CAN YOU GET SSD BENEFITS FOR DEGENERATIVE DISC DISEASE?

Degenerative Disc Disease (DDD) is a condition that can have a profound impact on your ability to work. While the name might suggest a traditional illness, DDD is actually a result of the natural aging process. Over time, the spinal discs that cushion the vertebrae wear down. This leads to pain and limited mobility.

For many people, these symptoms become so severe that working becomes impossible. If you find yourself in this situation, you may be wondering whether you qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits. If you cannot work for longer than one year, then you should apply for SSDI and SSI benefits.

You can file an application for SSDI benefits on Social Security’s website. That is the first step to receive SSD benefits. Next, you must fill out all of the forms the SSA sends you in the mail. Even if you do this in a timely manner, it still takes months for the SSA to make a decision about your case. Finally, when they do make a decision, it is almost always a denial of your benefits.

You need to know this is the process before you start your application. You cannot left yourself lose hope. The SSD lawyers at our firm help people understand the complex SSA system. Contact us today. Our legal team fights for the benefits you deserve.

UNDERSTANDING DEGENERATIVE DISC DISEASE 

The spine is made up of bones called vertebrae. Between these bones are discs that act as shock absorbers. Our spinal discs have a tough outer layer and a soft inner core. As we age, the discs begin to lose moisture and elasticity and they begin to degenerate. Degeneration causes the discs to shrink, tear, or herniate, putting pressure on surrounding nerves. The result is often chronic pain in the back or neck. It can also cause muscle weakness and pain in your arms and legs.

In advanced cases of DDD, you may also experience conditions such as spinal stenosis or osteoarthritis. These conditions cause significant pain and further reduce your ability to function at home and on the job. The pain caused by DDD can radiate into the arms or legs, depending on which nerves are involved. For example, if you have low back pain, then you may experience shooting pain down your legs. If you have degenerative disc disease in your neck, then shooting pain may spread into your shoulders and arms.

While most people will experience some form of disc arthritis as they age, not everyone develops painful symptoms. For those who do, the pain can interfere with the ability to sit, stand, and walk. Even basic activities like lifting a grocery bag or climbing stairs can become difficult. In cases where conservative treatments such as physical therapy or medication fail, your doctor may recommend surgery. However, surgery is not always successful. Many people continue to experience pain despite medical intervention.

HOW DEGENERATIVE DISC DISEASE IMPACTS YOUR ABILITY TO WORK

One of the most challenging aspects of DDD is its unpredictable nature. Some people experience constant back pain, while others have pain that comes and goes. Regardless of the pattern, degenerative disc disease can make it very difficult to maintain regular employment. Jobs that require physical labor, such as construction or factory work, may become impossible for you to do. Even seated jobs can be challenging if sitting for long periods increases your pain.

Many people with DDD find themselves in a cycle of trying to work but being forced to take frequent breaks. Or, they have to leave work early due to pain and can’t get their tasks done. Over time, your job performance may suffer. This can lead to job loss, financial strain, and emotional stress. People with chronic back or neck pain often report high levels of anxiety, which further impacts their ability to work.

Employers expect you to work 40 hours a week. If you need to miss work, leave early, or take breaks, it can put your job at risk. Over time, you may find that your performance suffers. You may no longer be able to meet the demands of your position. This is often the point where individuals start considering whether SSD benefits might be an option. The Social Security Administration (SSA) does provide benefits to those who are unable to work due to a medical condition. However, winning benefits is not always easy.

HOW TO QUALIFY FOR SSD BENEFITS

To qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI), you must prove that your medical condition is severe enough to prevent you from doing all jobs. The SSA maintains a list of medical conditions known as the Blue Book. The Blue Book outlines the medical rules for various conditions. Degenerative disc disease falls under the category of “Disorders of the Spine.” Specifically, your DDD may meet Listing 1.15, which addresses nerve root compression. Or, your DDD may meet Listing 1.16, which involves lumbar spinal stenosis.

Meeting the spinal listing in the Blue Book requires medical evidence. You will need to submit imaging studies such as MRI or CT scans to the SSA. These tests show the extent of disc damage in your spine. They also show whether there is compression of your spinal cord or nerve roots. In addition, the SSA looks for signs like chronic pain, muscle weakness and limited range of motion. They also determine whether you have difficulty walking or using your arms. For example, do you need a cane or a walker? If you meet a listing, then you should win benefits.

However, most people do not meet the listing at step three of the review process. In these cases, the SSA will assess your Residual Functional Capacity (RFC). This evaluation considers what you are still capable of doing despite your condition. The SSA will look at your ability to sit, stand, walk, lift, carry, and perform other physical activities. If they determine that your degenerative disc disease prevents you from performing your past work or any other work, then you may still win SSDI benefits.

THE ROLE OF MEDICAL EVIDENCE IN YOUR SSD BENEFITS CASE

When applying for SSDI benefits due to degenerative disc disease, medical evidence is essential. A diagnosis alone is not enough. You must show how the condition affects your daily life and work capacity. This includes recors from your treating physicians, physical therapists, and any medical experts you have seen. Detailed notes that describe your symptoms and your response to treatment will strengthen your claim.

Imaging results play a key role in proving your condition. MRIs can reveal disc herniation, narrowing of the spinal canal, and nerve pain. EMG nerve studies may also confirm nerve damage. If you have had surgery, operative reports and progress notes should be part of your application. The SSA wants to see that you have pursued appropriate treatment and that your symptoms persist despite these efforts.

In addition to medical records, your doctor can complete an RFC form that outlines your physical limits. This form provides a detailed picture of how your condition impacts your ability to work. It covers things like how long you can sit or stand, how much you can lift, and whether you need to change positions. The more detailed and consistent your evidence, the stronger your case will be.

It’s also helpful to maintain a personal pain journal. This record can help you document how your pain changes from day to day. It can show what activities trigger your pain. It can also show how often you require medication or rest. While not a replacement for medical records, a pain journal can provide evidence to support your claim.

DEGENERATIVE DISC DISEASE AFFECTS YOUR RESIDUAL FUNCTIONAL CAPACITY (RFC)

Even if your medical condition doesn’t meet a listing in the Blue Book, you can still qualify for SSD benefits. Your RFC is a medical and legal assessment of what you are still able to do, despite your spinal condition. For those with degenerative disc disease, the RFC is often the most important way to win SSD benefits.

The SSA evaluates your RFC by reading your medical records. They look at how long you can sit, stand, walk, lift, carry, bend, and twist. For people with DDD, these activities can be extremely painful or even impossible.

For example, if you can’t sit for more than 30 minutes without needing to stand, that rules out most seated jobs. If you can’t stand or walk for extended periods, then you may not be able to do light work. If your pain interferes with your concentration and ability to complete tasks, then that can reduce the type of jobs you can do.

Your RFC might include restrictions such as:

• Needing to sit and then stand every 15 minutes

• Cannot lift or carry greater than 10 pounds

• Cannot bend, stoop, crouch, or climb stairs

• The need for frequent breaks due to pain or fatigue

• Absences from work several days per month

If your RFC demonstrates that you can’t perform your past relevant work or any other job, then you should win SSD benefits. We work closely with your doctors to gather medical opinions that support your claim.  An RFC assessment, combined with strong medical evidence, can make the difference between a denial and an approval. Therefore, make sure your doctor supports your claim for benefits.

WORKING WITH AN ATTORNEY TO WIN YOUR SSDI BENEFITS

Filing an application for SSDI benefits is a lengthy and often frustrating process. Almost 90% of initial claims are denied. That is why working with an experienced SSD attorney can make a difference. At our SSD law firm, we guide you through every step of the process, from gathering evidence to filing your appeals.

We know what the SSA is looking for. Most importantly, we understand how to present your case in the best possible light. Our team works closely with your medical providers to obtain the necessary records. We also prepare you for hearings and represent you before the judge. Our goal is to take the stress off your shoulders so you can focus on your health.

We also stay current on SSA policy updates, including changes to how the agency defines “past relevant work.” In recent years, the SSA has shifted to considering only the last five years of work history, rather than fifteen. This change can work in your favor if your most recent jobs required physical labor that you can no longer perform. Our legal team is familiar with SSA’s regulations and how they can help your case.

WHY ARE SSD CLAIMS DENIED?

There are several reasons why SSD claims for degenerative disc disease are denied. One of the most common is not enough medical evidence. If your records do not clearly show how your condition limits your ability to work, then the SSA may conclude that you can still perform some type of job. Another reason they deny cases is failing to follow your treatment plan. If you skip doctor appointments or refuse care, then the SSA may say that you are not complaint with treatment.

Work activity can also affect your ability to qualify for benefits. If you are still working and you earn greater than $1620 per month, then the SSA will not consider you disabled. It’s important to understand the rules around Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA) and how even part time work can impact your case.

Another common issue is missing deadlines. The SSA review process is full of deadlines. Missing a deadline to appeal can mean starting your claim over again from scratch. This is one reason it is so important to have legal help. We ensure all your paperwork is sent in on time.

Sometimes, the SSA denies claims because they believe your condition is not going to last longer than 12 months. To qualify for benefits, your medical condition must last longer than one year. If your medical records suggest your symptoms are getting better or that you’ll recover quickly, then the SSA may deny your benefits. Working with our legal team can help you stay on top of these requirements and avoid costly mistakes.

HIRE OUR SSD LAW FIRM HELPS YOU WIN SSDI BENEFITS

If you’re struggling with degenerative disc disease and believe you can no longer work, the first step is to talk to your doctor. Make sure your doctor has written down all of your symptoms. Also, make sure you are following through with treatment. Keep a record of your daily challenges, including pain levels and how your condition affects your routine.

Next, contact our legal team. We offer a free review of your SSD case. Additionally, we will evaluate your case to determine the best path forward. Whether you are just starting your application or need to appeal a denial, we are here to help. We don’t get paid unless you win SSD benefits, so there’s no risk in calling us.

Living with chronic pain is hard enough. You don’t have to fight the SSA alone. Let us put our legal experience to work for you. We can help you secure the benefits you need to move forward with your life. We are the best SSD law firm you can hire. Our team has won over 20,000 SSDI and SSI cases, many of those for people with spinal disease.

If degenerative disc disease has made it impossible for you to work, then you deserve help. Our experienced legal team is ready to fight for your Social Security Disability benefits. We’ve helped thousands of clients with back conditions obtain the financial support they need. Call us today for a free review of your SSDI benefits. We will help you every step of the way.