Qualifying for Disability Benefits with Polymyositis
Polymyositis is an uncommon inflammatory disease that causes muscle weakness affecting both sides of your body. Having this condition can make it difficult to climb stairs, rise from a seated position, lift objects or reach overhead. Polymyositis most commonly affects adults in their 30s, 40s or 50s and women are affected more often than men. To learn more about how the Social Security Administration (SSA) defines this disability, visit Section 14.00 of the Blue Book.
Does Polymyositis Qualify for Disability?
Yes, people with polymyositis do qualify, but they need to meet the requirements of the SSA’s guidelines for this disability. Here they are below:
- Weakness of the pelvis, hips or shoulders causing the inability to walk or to perform large and small movements effectively (at a given level of severity), or
- Difficulty swallowing caused by muscle weakness resulting in aspiration into the lungs, or
- Breathing difficulties due to weakness of the diaphragm or intercostal muscles, or
- Calcium deposits which limit joint mobility or intestinal function, or repeated symptoms of polymyositis, with a minimum of 2 constitutional symptoms, and one of the following:
- Impact to the activities of daily living
- Impact to social function
- Impact to one’s ability to concentrate or focus.
Polymyositis can be diagnosed using Magnetic Resonance Imaging (or MRI) to detect muscular inflammation, weakness and calcium deposits. Electromyography may be used to measure the electrical activity within the muscles. Muscle biopsies may be necessary to observe microscopic abnormalities within the muscle cells. Blood tests may be used to detect changes in enzymes or antibodies which can be indicators of the presence of the disease. Be aware that diagnosis of polymyositis may be a long, frustrating process.
How Do I Apply for Disability Benefits?
To apply for disability benefits, it’s important to understand the disability application process. If you’ve been diagnosed with polymyositis and believe you may qualify, contact us today for a free disability case evaluation.
