Qualifying for Disability Benefits with Neck Pain and Neck Problems
Neck pain and problems are often a result of poor posture or overuse, or an awkward sleeping position. Your neck pain may be mild and not interfere much with your daily activities, or it may be severe and cause disability. A doctor’s care may be necessary to determine if your neck pain is due to a more serious injury like whiplash or an illness. To learn more about how the Social Security Administration (SSA) defines this disability, visit Section 1.15 of the Blue Book.
Does Neck Pain and Neck Problems Qualify for Disability?
Yes, people with neck pain and neck problems do qualify, but they need to meet the requirements of the SSA’s guidelines for this disability outlined in Section 1.15 (C). Here they are below:
1.15 Disorders of the skeletal spine resulting in compromise of a nerve roots with A, B, C, and D:
A. Neuro-anatomic (radicular) distribution of one or more of the following symptoms consistent with compromise of the affected nerve roots:
1. Pain; or
2. Paresthesia; or
3. Muscle fatigue.
AND
B. Radicular distribution of neurological signs present during physical exam or on a diagnostic test and evidenced by 1, 2, and either 3 or 4:
1. Muscle weakness; and
2. Signs of nerve root irritation, tension, or compression, consistent with compromise of the affected nerve root
3. Sensory changes evidenced by:
a. Decreased sensation; or
b. Sensory nerve deficit (abnormal sensory nerve latency) on electrodiagnostic testing; or
4. Decreased deep tendon reflexes.
AND
C. Findings on imaging consistent with compromise of nerve roots in the cervical or lumbosacral spine.
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 records 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 involving the use of both hands; or
2. An inability to use one upper extremity to independently initiate, sustain, and complete work related activities involving 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 involving the use of one hand; or
3. An inability to use both upper extremities to the extent that neither can be used to independently initiate, sustain, and complete work related activities involving fine and gross movements.
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 neck pain and neck problems and believe you may qualify, contact us today for a free disability case evaluation.
