Qualifying for Disability Benefits with Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Carpal tunnel syndrome is one of the most common hand conditions. It is caused by pressure on the median nerve in the carpal tunnel of the wrist. The carpal tunnel is a narrow passageway surrounded by bones and ligaments on the palm side of the hand. When the median nerve is compressed, symptoms can include numbness, tingling and weakness in the thumb and fingers. Wrist anatomy, health conditions and possibly repetitive hand motions can contribute to carpal tunnel syndrome. Proper treatment usually relieves the tingling and numbness and restores hand function. To learn more about how the Social Security Administration (SSA) defines this disability, visit Section 1.00 of the Blue Book.
Does Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Qualify for Disability?
Although there is no official listing for carpal tunnel syndrome in the SSA’s Blue Book, you may be able to get benefits by:
- Meeting the requirements of another listing. Carpal tunnel results from severe nerve compression in the wrist. This is a form of “mononeuropathy,” which can occur anywhere in the body where damaged nerves reside. The Blue Book contains a listing for damaged nerves under Section 11.14: “Peripheral Neuropathy,” which states that applicants can qualify for benefits if they demonstrate:
- An inability to properly control or use two extremities (“disorganization of motor function”) resulting in an extreme limitation of walking, sitting, standing up, balancing, or using the upper extremities, OR
- Marked limitation in physical functioning as well as with either a) understanding, remembering, or applying information, b) interacting with others, c) concentrating, persisting, or maintaining pace, or d) adapting or managing oneself.
- Speak with your physician to learn if your CTS may be severe enough to qualify under this listing.
Does Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Qualify for Disability?
To apply for disability benefits, it’s important to understand the disability application process. If you’ve been diagnosed with carpal tunnel syndrome and believe you may qualify, contact us today for a free disability case evaluation.
