Qualifying for Disability Benefits with Lumbar Spinal Stenosis
The lumbar spine (lower back) consists of five vertebrae in the lower part of the spine, between the ribs and the pelvis. Lumbar spinal stenosis is a narrowing of the spinal canal, compressing the nerves traveling through the lower back into the legs. Some people experience no symptoms, while others may have pain, tingling, numbness and muscle weakness, which can get worse over time. While it can affect younger patients, it is more often a degenerative condition that affects people who are typically age 60 and older. To learn more about how the Social Security Administration (SSA) defines this disability, visit Section 1.04 of the Blue Book.
Does Lumbar Spinal Stenosis Qualify for Disability?
Yes, people with lumbar spinal stenosis do qualify, but they need to meet the requirements of the SSA’s guidelines for this disability. The SSA discusses Disorders of the Spine, including lumbar spinal stenosis, under Section 1.04 of the Blue Book.
In order to apply for Social Security disability benefits, your medical records must show the following:
- You must be diagnosed with lumbar spinal stenosis.
- Your records must show that your condition has caused nerve root compression and that this compression has resulted in pain, limited range of motion of the spine, and muscle weakness in combination with sensory or reflex loss. SSA will also require a straight-leg raising test.
- Your medical records must also contain evidence of pseudoclaudication (leg pain that becomes increasingly worse with walking) that is severe enough that it results in an inability to effectively walk, and should include the results of all imaging studies (MRI, CT scan, e-rays).
- Your medical records should also document treatment you have received and your response to that treatment. As with all other disabling conditions, the SSA is most concerned with how you are able to function, despite your condition. Your application for disability benefits should therefore emphasize any limitations imposed on your everyday life by the pain caused by this condition, despite treatment.
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 lumbar spinal stenosis and believe you may qualify, contact us today for a free disability case evaluation.
