SPINAL STENOSIS & DISABILITY

WHAT IS SPINAL STENOSIS?

Spinal stenosis is a medical condition in which the spinal canal narrows and compresses the nerves that pass through it. Compression of the nerves causes pain and numbness. It can also cause weakness in your back, legs, and arms.

There are two main types of spinal stenosis: lumbar and cervical spinal stenosis. Lumbar spinal stenosis affects the low back. Cervical spinal stenosis affects the neck.

Spinal stenosis can be caused by a variety of factors. For example, it can be due to changes in the spine from age and degeneration of the spine. It can also occur due to thick ligaments, herniated discs, or bone spurs. Other factors that may cause the condition include arthritis, tumors, and trauma.

Spinal stenosis is a common condition, especially among older adults. According to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, spinal stenosis affects 1 in 1000 people in the US. That is almost 400,000 to 500,000 people in the US with the condition. Another study in the Journal of the American Medical Association in 2017 states that the percentage of lumbar spinal stenosis among adults aged 60 years and older in the US is 9.3%.

THE SYMPTOMS OF SPINAL STENOSIS

The symptoms of spinal stenosis depend on the location of narrowing in the spinal canal. It also depends on the nerve compression. The following are some common symptoms of spinal stenosis:

• PAIN:  

  The most common symptom of the condition is pain in the neck, back, legs, or buttocks. The pain may be sharp or dull. You may also experience a burning feeling that runs down your legs or arms. In addition to nerve compression, spinal stenosis can cause inflammation of the nerves. Nerve irritation creates more pain. Your pain may be made worse by physical activity or standing for long periods of time.  These activities increase pressure on the nerves.

• NUMBNESS OR WEAKNESS:  

  Pressure on the spinal cord or nerves can cause your arms, legs, or other parts of your body to go numb and tingle. This can make it difficult to perform everyday tasks, like typing or going up stairs. It may also increase your risk of falls.

• TROUBLE STANDING OR WALKING:  

  Spinal stenosis can make it difficult to walk or stand for extended periods of time. Some people may feel a heaviness or weakness in the legs. They may also feel off balance.

• LOSS OF BOWEL OR BLADDER CONTROL:  

  In severe cases, pressure on the spinal cord can cause loss of bladder or bowel control. The nerves responsible for bowel and bladder control are located in the lower part of the spinal cord and exit through small openings in the lower spine. When spinal stenosis occurs in this area, the nerves can become pinched, leading to a loss of sensation and muscle control in the bladder and bowel. This is a medical emergency and requires immediate treatment.

• SEXUAL DYSFUNCTION:

  Spinal stenosis can also cause sexual dysfunction in both men and women. This is because the condition can affect the nerves and blood flow to the genitals, which are important for sexual arousal.

It is important to note that not everyone with spinal stenosis will experience all of these symptoms. In fact, some people may have no symptoms at all. However, if you are having the above symptoms, then see a doctor.

CERVICAL SPINAL STENOSIS

Cervical spinal stenosis is a condition where the spinal canal in the neck becomes narrowed. This results in compression of the spinal cord and nerve roots. Narrowing can be caused by a number of factors, including damage to the spine, herniated discs, bone spurs, or other problems.

Symptoms of cervical spinal stenosis can vary depending on the severity of the condition and the location of the compressed nerves. Some common symptoms include:

1. Pain in the neck, shoulders, arms, or hands
2. Numbness or tingling in the arms or hands
3. Weakness in the arms or hands
4. Loss of fine motor skills
5. Difficulty walking or maintaining balance

Diagnosis of cervical spinal stenosis requires a physical exam, medical history, and imaging tests. Treatment for cervical spinal stenosis may include physical therapy, medication, or surgery.

It is important to consult with a doctor if you are having symptoms of cervical spinal stenosis. Early treatment can help prevent further damage to the spinal cord.

LUMBAR SPINAL STENOSIS

The lumbar spine is made up of five vertebrae. These are L1 through L5, with the top being L1 and the bottom of the spine being L5. The nerve roots that exit the spinal cord at each level of the lumbar spine correspond to certain areas of the body. For example, the nerve roots that exit the spinal cord at the L4-L5 supply sensation to the thighs and feet. While the nerve roots that exit at the L5-S1 level supply sensation to the legs and feet.

In lumbar spinal stenosis, the narrowing of the spinal canal can occur at any level of the lumbar spine. The symptoms you will experience depend on which nerves are affected.

Symptoms of lumbar spinal stenosis depend on the location of the compressed nerves. Some common symptoms include:

1. Pain in the lower back, buttocks, legs, or feet
2. Numbness in the legs or feet
3. Weakness in the legs or feet
4. Difficulty walking and trouble with balance
5. Loss of bladder or bowel control

Symptoms of lumbar spinal stenosis can become worse from physical activity or sitting and standing for long periods of time. Sitting and standing can increase pressure on the affected nerves.

Diagnosis of lumbar spinal stenosis requires a physical exam, medical history, and imaging tests such as X-rays, MRI, or CT scans. Treatment for the condition may include physical therapy, medication, or surgery.

It is important to consult with a doctor if you are having symptoms of lumbar spinal stenosis. Early treatment can limit your pain and improve the outcome of the disease.

TREATMENT FOR SPINAL STENOSIS

The treatment plan for spinal stenosis depends on the severity of your condition, as well as your age and overall health. Your doctor will design a treatment that will reduce your symptoms and pain.

The following are some common treatment options for spinal stenosis:

1. Physical Therapy: Exercises can improve the muscles that support the spine. Exercise can also improve your balance. It can also improve your mobility and reduce your pain.
2. Medications: Medications, such as Ibuprofen, may relieve pain. Your doctor may give you other medications such as muscle relaxers for muscle spasms.
3. Steroid Injections: Steroid shots can be used to reduce swelling and relieve pain. They are usually done by a doctor who uses an X-ray to guide the shot into the correct place in your back.
4. Surgery: Surgery may relieve pressure on the nerves in your low back or neck. The type of surgery will depend on the location of the spinal stenosis.
5. Changes in position: Simple changes in the position of your body can also help manage your symptoms. For example, you might be able to manage your pain level by not standing or sitting for long periods of time.

It is important to consult with a doctor to determine the best treatment for your specific case.

IS SPINAL STENOSIS A DISABILITY?

Spinal stenosis can be painful if it is severe and affects your ability to perform daily activities. The Social Security Administration (SSA) has a set of rules for looking at SSDI and SSI claims. Their rules take into account how severe your medical condition is and how it impacts your ability to  work.

However, it is important to note that not everyone with spinal stenosis will receive benefits. The SSA looks at each case on an individual basis, because everyone is different. If you are experiencing symptoms that prevent you from working, then you should apply for SSDI and SSI benefits. Please remember, your symptoms must prevent you from working for 12 months or more in order to receive benefits.

It’s important to note that surgery is a last resort for spinal stenosis treatment. Most people with the condition are able to manage their symptoms without surgery. They manage their pain by doing physical therapy and taking medications. Surgery is done only if other treatments have not worked or if the spinal stenosis is going to cause loss of bowel or bladder control.

HOW TO FILE FOR SSD BENEFITS FOR SPINAL STENOSIS

In order to win SSDI benefits, you must earn enough work credits to qualify for SSDI benefits. Usually, this means working on a full time basis for at least 5 to 10 years, depending on your age.  If you don’t have enough work credits to qualify for SSDI benefits, then you might qualify for SSI benefits.

There are three ways to file an application for SSDI or SSI benefits:

• You can make an appointment to apply by phone by calling Social Security at 1-800-772-1213.
• Make an appointment to apply in person at your local Social Security office.
• File an online application on the Social Security website.

You can use the above steps to file an SSI application. Be aware, however, that in addition to a severe medical condition, you must also meet the income and asset limits set by the SSA. SSI benefits are based on the financial situation of your family. For example, if your spouse makes too much money each month, then you cannot get SSI benefits. This is true even if you meet the listing for spinal stenosis.

SSA LISTING 1.16 FOR SPINAL STENOSIS

1.16 Lumbar spinal stenosis resulting in compromise of the cauda equina with A, B, C, and D:

A. Symptoms of neurological compromise manifested as:

1. Nonradicular distribution of pain in one or both lower extremities; or

2. Nonradicular distribution of sensory loss in one or both lower extremities; or

3. Neurogenic claudication.

AND

B. Nonradicular neurological signs present during physical exam or on a diagnostic test and evidenced by 1 and either 2 or 3:

1. Muscle weakness.

2. Sensory changes evidenced by:

a. Decreased sensation; or

b. Sensory nerve deficit (abnormal sensory nerve latency) on electrodiagnostic testing; or

c. Areflexia, trophic ulceration, or bladder or bowel incontinence.

3. Decreased deep tendon reflexes in one or both lower extremities.

AND

C. Findings on imaging or in an operative report consistent with compromise of the cauda equina with lumbar spinal stenosis.

AND

D. Impairment related physical limitation of musculoskeletal functioning that has lasted, or is expected to last, for a continuous period of at least 12 months, and medical documentation of at least one of the following:

1. A documented medical need for a walker, bilateral canes, or bilateral crutches or a wheeled and seated mobility device that requires the use of both hands; or

2. An inability to use one upper extremity to independently initiate, sustain, and complete work related activities that involves fine and gross movements, and a documented medical need for a one handed, hand held assistive device that requires the use of the other upper extremity or a wheeled and seated mobility device that involves the use of one hand.

SPINAL STENOSIS & FUNCTIONAL LIMITS 

In order to prove you cannot work due to spinal stenosis, your back symptoms must last longer than 12 months. This means your back pain must keep you from working for over one year.

When making the decision to pay you benefits, the SSA will also look at physical limits you have that effect your ability to work a full time job. Functional limits means how your physical condition makes you unable to do normal activities, like sit, stand, walk, lift, and bend. In other words, the physical activities you are not able to do because of your back condition.

If you spinal stenosis does not meet or equal listing 1.16, then you can still win benefits using your residual functional capacity (RFC).  The SSA will define a certain RFC for you after reading your medical records.

Therefore, it is important to have your treating doctor complete an RFC form. Our firm will send an RFC form to your doctor to complete. The SSA should take the medical opinion of your doctor into account when they determine if they can pay you benefits.

PHYSICAL LIMITATIONS FROM SPINAL STENOSIS

If you have spinal stenosis, then there are certain physical limits that may keep you from working. However, it is important that your treating sources document your limits in your medical record. These physical limits include:

• Being unable to walk for more than one block without needing to take a break
• Needing to use a two canes or a walker to walk
• Not being able to bend over or stoop down
• Being unable to lift objects over ten pounds
• Inability to sit or stand for at least two hours in an eight hour work day
• Needing to elevate your legs above your heart for two hours in an eight hour work day
• Due to pain, needing to lay down for large portions of the day
• Being unable to sit down in a work chair for at least six hours during an eight hour work day

You can think of these limits as physical issues that impact your ability to work 40 hours a week. If you have even a few of these physical limits, then it may mean you cannot work. Find out more about winning SSD benefits with your RFC. Unfortunately, your written statements and hearing testimony about your physical limits only goes so far to prove you cannot work. You will also need medical proof. Therefore, the support of your doctor is crucial to winning your SSD benefits.

OUR LAW FIRM CAN HELP YOU WIN SSD BENEFITS 

At our law firm, we can help you apply for Social Security benefits if you cannot work due to spinal stenosis. You will need to be off work for over one year in order to win SSD and SSI benefits.

Also, we can help you appeal a denial from the SSA. Likewise, we can represent you in court.  If necessary, we can also appeal your case to the Appeals Council. Additionally, we can file an appeal in Federal Court and represent you not matter where you live.

Not only do we want to win you ongoing benefits, we also try to win all of your past due Social Security benefits. When you file your application, it can take so long to get through the appeal process that you will be due back benefits. Also, if you have previous applications, you might be able to win past due benefits on those prior applications. Learn more about past due benefits.

Also, we bring over 30 years of legal experience to your SSD and SSI case. For instance, Dianna Cannon has been helping clients win SSA hearings for over thirty years. Brett Bunkall and Andria Summers also have many years of legal experience. Together, we have won over 20,000 SSD and SSI cases for our clients. You can trust we will do everything we can to win your SSDI and SSI benefits for spinal stenosis.

WHAT WE DO TO HELP YOU WIN SSDI AND SSI BENEFITS 

If you have spinal stenosis, then you do not need to apply for Social Security benefits on your own. You can always call our law firm and we will help you. We can help you file your application. Also, we can help you appeal every SSA denial. For example, our attorneys and staff can:

• Send you the paperwork you need to become our client
• Help you file your application for SSDI and SSI benefits
• Inform the SSA they should pay your benefits under the Compassionate Allowance Rules
• Appeal if you receive an initial denial from DDS
• Help you confirm your SSA doctor exam
• Request a Hearing with an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ)
• Prepare you to testify at your ALJ hearing
• Represent you at your hearing and question the expert witnesses
• Read more information about job experts
• Learn more about medical expert testimony
• Request review of an SSA decision with the Appeals Council
• Request review of an Appeals Council denial in Federal Court

If you file your application for benefits online at Social Security’s website, then you have 6 months to complete it. Once you submit your application, the SSA sends you an application summary in the mail. You must sign the summary and mail it back. If you don’t send it back, then the SSA will not process your application. Sign it and send it back as soon as you can.

IS HIRING OUR LAW FIRM EXPENSIVE?

No. We are not expensive, because we only charge you an attorney fee if we win your benefits.

It also doesn’t cost you any upfront money to hire us. Why? Because you only pay us an attorney fee if we win your case. This means if we win your case, then you pay us out of your past due disability benefits. If you do not win, then you do not pay an attorney fee. How much is the fee? It is 25% of your past due benefit.

Also, there is a fee cap set at $7200 by the SSA. The fee cap is going up to $9200 in November 2024. You never pay more than the fee cap at the hearing stage of your case. And, 25% of your back benefit is usually less than the cap. You will pay whatever amount is less between the fee cap and 25% of your back benefit.

If there are costs in your case, then you pay for those costs. But the costs are usually less than $100. For example, if a doctor charges for copies of your medical records, then that is a cost you must pay. You will owe the costs in your case whether we win or lose your case. Your attorney fee, however, comes from your past due benefits. Therefore, you only pay an attorney fee if we win your case.

We will use our skills to help you through the Social Security appeal process. It is our goal to make filing for SSD and SSI benefits easier for you. We offer a free review of your case. There is no pressure to become a client if you call. You can simply ask questions. Even if we don’t accept your case, we will still try to help you.

HIRE US FOR OUR YEARS OF LEGAL EXPERIENCE

If you have spinal stenosis, then you need to hire a law firm to help you win your SSD benefits. Our firm is one of the best Social Security disability law firms in the country. We are one of the best Social Security benefits firm in Las Vegas, Nevada. Also, we are one of the best Social Security law firms in Salt Lake City, Utah.

Our attorneys are also members of the National Organization of Social Security Claimant’s Representatives. Learn more about Utah SSD benefits. Nevada SSI Information is also available. We also represent clients in Idaho. Find out more about Colorado SSDI and SSI benefits. Likewise, if you are from California, then California SSDI & SSI information is on our website.

Over the last 30 years, we have won thousands of SSDI and SSI claims. Additionally, we have won over $100 million in SSDI and SSI benefits for our clients. Over time it has become more difficult to win Social Security cases. Also, SSA’s listing rules are harder to meet. That is why you need an attorney to help you win your benefits.

We recommend you do not go to your hearing without an attorney. Why? Because a lawyer can prepare you to testify. She can explain the questions the judge might ask. Preparation will help you win your case.

Those who attend the hearing without counsel are usually not successful in winning benefits. You should hire an attorney with years of winning SSDI and SSI cases. Contact Cannon Disability Law today. We can help you win benefits for spinal stenosis. We will review your case for free, because we want to help you win SSD benefits for spinal stenosis.