What is Scoliosis?
Scoliosis, a condition characterized by an abnormal curvature of the spine, impacts about 2%-3% of the U.S. population, or an estimated 7 million people. This condition most commonly develops between the ages of 10 and 15. While many people who are diagnosed live normal, active lives, others endure significant physical challenges.
Scoliosis can cause severe symptoms that prevent individuals from enjoying life and taking care of themselves and others. If you’re unable to maintain a steady job or even work part time as a result of pain, muscle weakness, or immobility, you probably feel trapped by your disease. You’re likely afraid you won’t be able to pay your bills or receive appropriate medical care.
Fortunately, there is help available for those suffering from disabling scoliosis. Many individuals with this condition ask, Can you get SSI for scoliosis? or Can you get SSDI for scoliosis? The answer is yes.
While scoliosis itself isn’t considered a disability by the Social Security Administration (SSA), the severity of symptoms can make you eligible for disability benefits.
If you’re ready to file for Social Security for scoliosis, our attorneys at Peña & Bromberg can help you understand your options. Continue reading to learn more about the application process.
How Can You Get Social Security Disability for Scoliosis?
If you have scoliosis and suffer from debilitating symptoms, you may be able to file for disability benefits. Advanced cases can cause severe pain, mobility issues, and potential respiratory or cardiac complications. It’s when such symptoms prevent an individual from working that disability benefits can come into play.
Types and Symptoms of Scoliosis
- Idiopathic Scoliosis: This is the most common type of scoliosis. It accounts for about 80% of cases and is usually diagnosed during adolescence.
- Traumatic Scoliosis: This type of scoliosis results from spinal injuries.
- Congenital Scoliosis: Present from birth, this type of scoliosis causes significant vertebral abnormalities.
- Neuromuscular Scoliosis: Caused by neurological or muscular diseases like cerebral palsy and muscular dystrophy, this type of scoliosis often progresses rapidly.
- Degenerative Scoliosis: This type of scoliosis develops in grown adults due to degenerative changes in the spine.
Symptoms of scoliosis range from visible spinal curvatures to chronic back pain and muscle cramps. In degenerative cases, symptoms can include lower back pain, leg pain, and muscle weakness. Many sufferers who deal with severe symptoms cannot walk or sit for long periods of time, or lift heavy items.
Understanding Disability Benefits for Scoliosis | SSI & SSDI
Individuals with scoliosis can apply for two primary types of disability benefits:
- Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI)
- Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
SSDI provides financial assistance to individuals who are unable to work due to a qualifying mental or physical impairment. Their impairment must be a diagnosed medical condition that prevents them from performing Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA). Funded by payroll taxes, SSDI is available to those who have contributed to the Social Security System through previous employment and met specific medical criteria.
SSI provides financial aid to elderly, blind, or disabled individuals with limited income and resources. Unlike SSDI, it doesn’t require a previous work history. Funded by the U.S. Treasury, SSI aims to provide basic financial support to individuals who cannot perform SGA.
Qualifying for SSDI and SSI for Scoliosis
Scoliosis is not listed explicitly in the SSA’s Blue Book as a qualifying impairment for disability benefits. However, it’s still considered a potentially disabling condition.
You may be able to file for Social Security Disability for scoliosis under Section 1.00, Musculoskeletal Disorders, in the Blue Book. To qualify under this section, symptoms like nerve root compression, swelling of the spinal membrane, or lumbar spinal stenosis should be present.
If your scoliosis impacts lung capacity or causes cardiovascular issues, you may be able to file under other sections in the Blue Book. These include Section 3.00 for Respiratory Disorders or Section 4.00 for Cardiovascular System disorders.
How Does Scoliosis Qualify for Social Security Disability Outside the Blue Book?
If the SSA determines that your medical condition doesn’t qualify for disability benefits under a Blue Book listing, you may qualify under a Medical Vocational Allowance. You will only be approved for benefits under an allowance if it’s found that your condition prevents you from engaging in any type of work.
Medical Evidence
When applying for SSDI or SSI with scoliosis, it’s crucial to provide comprehensive medical evidence to the SSA. This can include X-rays, treatment results, doctors’ assessments of your work capabilities, and other medical records.
This evidence, as well as any non-medical evidence you provide, needs to support your claim that your condition limits your ability to work. Your condition must also be expected to last at least 12 months or result in death.
Disability Denials | We Handle Appeals
Many initial disability claims are denied due to the SSA’s strict application process and disability criteria. If your claim has been denied, don’t lose hope. Seeking assistance from an experienced disability attorney can significantly increase your chances of filing a successful appeal.
Our legal professionals at Peña & Bromberg can help you appeal the SSA’s decision. We’ll review your claim to identify any discrepancies or mistakes that may have contributed to your denial. We’ll also gather crucial medical and non-medical evidence to further support your case.
It’s our goal to ensure you get the best opportunity to receive the benefits you need. With our experience and dedication, you can rest assured that you’re in good hands when you allow us to represent your disability appeal.
Contact Peña & Bromberg
If you’re suffering from scoliosis, Social Security Disability benefits may be the answer to getting the help you need. Contact our dedicated disability attorneys in Stockton, Fresno, or Bakersfield, CA to schedule a free consultation! With our help, you’ll receive compassionate, experienced legal assistance from a law firm that has been handling Social Security Disability cases since 1984.
