Qualifying for Disability Benefits with Muscular Dystrophy
Muscular dystrophy is a group of diseases that cause progressive weakness and loss of muscle mass. In muscular dystrophy, abnormal genes (mutations) interfere with the production of proteins needed to form healthy muscle. There are many kinds of muscular dystrophy. Symptoms of the most common variety begin in childhood, mostly in boys, while other types don’t surface until adulthood. There’s no cure for muscular dystrophy, but medications and therapy can help manage symptoms and slow the course of the disease. To learn more about how the Social Security Administration (SSA) defines this disability, visit Section 11.13 of the Blue Book.
Does Muscular Dystrophy Qualify for Disability?
Yes, people with muscular dystrophy do qualify, but they need to meet the requirements for this disability listed under Section 11.13 in the SSA’s Blue Book:
A. Disorganization of motor function in two extremities. This means you have extreme difficulty using two arms or legs and are severely limited in your ability to stand up from a seated position, balance while standing or walking, or use your upper extremities. Typically, an individual with MD would have trouble using their arms to stand, walk, lift items, reach, type or perform daily tasks like getting dressed, cooking, cleaning and shopping.
OR
B. Marked limitation (more than moderate) in physical functioning and in one of the following:
- Understanding, remembering, or applying information;
- Interacting with others;
- Concentrating, persisting, finishing tasks at a reasonable speed; or
- Adapting or managing oneself (taking care of oneself, handling emotions, adapting to changes).
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 muscular dystrophy and believe you may qualify, contact us today for a free disability case evaluation.
