Baltimore Social Security Disability Lawyers: Back Pain Claim
March 13, 2017
Anyone who has ever suffered from chronic back pain knows that it can be quite debilitating, especially when the pain is severe. When the pain is so bad that it prevents a person from being able to work, he or she may consider filing a claim for Social Security Disability Insurance. For those that qualify, Social Security Disability Insurance provides a monthly income to individuals who have become disabled and have not yet reached retirement age. Back pain is one of the most common conditions listed by claimants who are applying for such benefits. Before filing a claim, there are some important things you should consider.
Back pain is caused by a number of spinal conditions that can prevent a person from being able to work. The following are just a few examples:
- Arthritic conditions, like degenerative disc disease
- Inflammatory conditions, including rheumatoid arthritis, arachnoiditis, and spondylitis
- Nerve conditions, including spinal stenosis, herniated discs, scoliosis, and nerve root compression
What the SSA Needs
In order to qualify for disability benefits, the Social Security Administration (SSA) will need to determine whether the claimant has been examined by a medical professional. If so, the SSA will need copies of any medical records and diagnostic testing, including x-rays, MRIs, CT scans, EMGs (nerve conduction studies), and discographies that show physical abnormalities that are responsible for the person’s disability.
In some cases, it may be difficult to establish a disability based on back pain. For example, if the claimant’s back pain is not related to a physical impairment that is known to cause severe back pain, the SSA might deny the claim. In addition, if the claimant fails to obtain the appropriate medical attention, or submits a claim with no notes or reports from the claimant’s physician, the SSA will be less likely to approve the claim. The medical documentation and in-depth notes from the physician who is treating the claimant are considered to be some of the most valuable evidence, according to the SSA. And if the claimant also provides medical records and physician notes from specialists like rheumatologists, orthopedists, physiatrists, or pain management physicians, it make the claimant’s case that much stronger in the eyes of the SSA.
Treating severe back pain often involves the use of powerful pain medications, including prescription opioids. Chronic pain can also impact an individual’s mental and emotional state. Therefore, the SSA considers an applicant’s total condition, including his or her physical and emotional impairments, when making a decision about a claim.
Baltimore Social Security Disability Lawyers at LeViness, Tolzman & Hamilton Secure Benefits for Clients Suffering from Back Pain
If you suffer from a disability caused by severe back pain, which prevents you from being able to work, contact the reputable Baltimore Social Security disability lawyers at LeViness, Tolzman & Hamilton as soon as possible. We have a comprehensive understanding of how to successfully navigate the complex claims process. We will ensure that you have the necessary documentation and medical records required by the the SSA, so that your claim is approved and you receive the benefits you deserve. To set up a free, confidential consultation, call us at 800-547-4LAW (4529) or contact us online.
Our offices are located in Baltimore, Columbia, Glen Burnie, and Towson, allowing us to represent clients throughout Maryland, including those in Anne Arundel County, Carroll County, Harford County, Howard County, Montgomery County, Maryland’s Western Counties, Southern Maryland, and the Eastern Shore, as well as the communities of Catonsville, Essex, Halethorpe, Middle River, Rosedale, Gwynn Oak, Brooklandville, Dundalk, Pikesville, Parkville, Nottingham, Windsor Mill, Lutherville, Timonium, Sparrows Point, Ridgewood, and Elkridge.
