Qualifying for Disability Benefits with Nerve Root Compression (Radiculopathy)
Nerve root compression, or radiculopathy, is caused by a pinched nerve in your spine. More specifically, it happens when one of your nerve roots (where your nerves join your spinal column) is compressed or irritated. You might see it referred to as radiculitis. Radiculopathy will cause the area around your pinched nerve to feel painful, numb or tingly. Depending on where along your spine the pinched nerve is, your healthcare provider will classify the radiculopathy as one of three types:
- Cervical radiculopathy (neck)
- Thoracic radiculopathy (upper middle back)
- Lumbar radiculopathy (low back)
Usually improving your posture, over-the-counter medicine or at-home physical therapy exercises are the only treatments you’ll need to relieve radiculopathy symptoms. In fact, some cases of radiculopathy improve with no treatment at all. To learn more about how the Social Security Administration (SSA) defines this disability, visit Section 1.00 of the Blue Book.
Does Nerve Root Compression (Radiculopathy) Qualify for Disability?
Whether your nerve root compression is due to a spinal injury, arthritis, a disc issue, or another spinal disorder, you can potentially qualify for benefits under the SSA’s listing for Disorders of the Spine under Section 1.04A. The requirements are as follows:
- You experience well documented pain distribution consistent with nerve root compression
AND
- Loss of motor function due to muscle weakness and loss or reflex function or sensory loss
Nerve root compression must be well documented through physical examination and diagnostic testing in order to satisfy the SSA’s medical evidence requirements. Specific pieces of medical evidence the SSA must see may include:
- Physical exam notes from your physician, describing the onset, progression, and persistence of symptoms
- Documentation of muscle weakness or atrophy and reflex or sensory changes
- Circulatory and neurological complications, documented through appropriate diagnostic procedures
- MRI, CT, or x-ray results documenting the nerve root compression and its physical cause
- Treatment procedures attempted and their results
- Medications you have taken in the past and those you currently take
- The effects of all medical treatments, including any side effects, if you have experienced any
- The short and long-term prognosis for your condition, including a statement from your physician defining your period of disability
If your nerve root issue involves your lower back, medical evidence must also include results from a “straight-leg raising test,” which measures pain and other symptom responses to you raising your legs up straight when sitting or lying flat on your back.
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 nerve root compression and believe you may qualify, contact us today for a free disability case evaluation.
