Qualifying for Disability Benefits with Shoulder Pain
Shoulder pain can be caused by issues with the shoulder joint or by issues with the surrounding soft tissues. These soft tissues include muscles, ligaments, tendons and bursae. Shoulder pain that comes from the joint often gets worse with arm or shoulder movement.
Also, certain health conditions of the neck, chest or stomach can cause shoulder pain. These include nerve issues in the spine, heart disease and gallbladder disease. When other health issues cause shoulder pain, it’s called referred pain. If your shoulder pain is referred, it shouldn’t get worse when you move your shoulder. To learn more about how the Social Security Administration (SSA) defines this disability, visit Section 14.09 of the Blue Book.
Does Shoulder Pain Qualify for Disability?
Yes, people with shoulder pain do qualify, but they need to meet the requirements of the SSA’s guidelines for this disability. Shoulder pain is listed in the Blue Book under listing 14.09. This covers inflammatory arthritis which is when you experience a persistent inflammation or persistent deformity of one or more key joints in the upper extremity of your body including your shoulders. You will need to provide medical documentation proving your inability to use your shoulders to sustain movement to the extent that you are unable to complete work-related activities.
You have to show that the inflammatory arthritis is severe and persistent which leads to fever, severe fatigue, malaise, or unplanned weight loss which limits your activities on a daily basis as well as limiting your ability to work for at least the next 12 months and socialize with others.
When you apply for disability benefits you will be asked to include a complete medical history that describes your shoulder problems, you will also be required to include notes from a physical examination that describes the level of pain you are experiencing. Your physicians should indicate your outlook once you have undergone treatment for your shoulder arthritis.
If your shoulder arthritis does not seem to meet the criteria found in the Blue Book, your physical and mental ability can be assessed by taking part in a Residual Functioning Capacity (RFC) carried out by your doctor or a physician appointed by the SSA. This assessment assesses your ability to move, sit, stand and carry heavy objects as well as how well you are able to communicate with others.
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 shoulder pain and believe you may qualify, contact us today for a free disability case evaluation.
