Social Security Disability for Ruptured Discs

A ruptured or herniated disc in your spine can be absolutely debilitating. When the cushioning discs between vertebrae tear or bulge out, it allows the gel-like inner disc material to leak out and press on sensitive spinal nerves and nerve roots.

The resulting symptoms, like intense radiating pain, numbness, tingling, and muscle weakness in your back, arms, and legs, can make even simple daily activities excruciating – let alone performing any type of gainful work duties.

If you are suffering from a severely ruptured disc causing chronic, disabling symptoms despite treatment, you may qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits. However, you will need significant medical proof to get approved. A South Carolina Social Security Disability Lawyer can help.

Meeting the SSA’s Requirements for a Ruptured Disc

The Social Security Administration (SSA) has a strict impairment listing for evaluating disability claims involving spinal disorders like ruptured discs – Listing 1.15 for disorders of the spine. To meet this listing, your medical evidence must clearly document:

• Nerve root compression and related limitations
• Compromise of a nerve root or the spinal cord
• Associated symptoms like pain, motor loss, sensory disturbances
• The inability to walk effectively, requiring the need for mobility device like a cane, crutches, or wheelchair

These are just some of the qualifications. Our attorneys can review your case and help you understand what medical proof is necessary. Essentially, your herniated disc must be causing spinal stenosis and nerve root compression, resulting in significant neurological deficits and mobility restrictions.

Even if you don’t meet this listing precisely, you may still qualify if your cumulative symptoms and limitations are deemed medically equivalent based on the evidence provided. Many back problems qualify for disability.

Proving Disability with a Ruptured Disc

Getting approved for SSDI with a ruptured disc requires extensive documentation of your condition, treatment history, persistent symptoms, and work-related functional limitations.

Key medical evidence needed includes:

• Clinical findings and treatment notes
• MRI or CT scan reports clearly showing disc herniation details
• Operative reports if you underwent spinal surgery
• Results of electromyography (EMG)/nerve conduction tests
• Records of epidural injections and other treatment attempts
• Physician notes chronicling your reported symptoms (pain levels, etc.)
• Assessments of functional capacity

Equally important are detailed assessments from your treating doctors explaining how your ruptured disc limits your abilities to:

• Walk, stand, and sit for prolonged periods
• Lift, carry, bend, stoop, crouch, climb, balance
• Use your hands/arms for repetitive actions, reaching, grasping
• Concentrate and maintain focus despite symptoms

Essentially, your medical records must “connect the dots” between your clinical findings and an inability to perform any jobs – not just your previous occupation. Our team can help you gather this documentation and will take the steps necessary to compile a comprehensive claim.

Why Many Ruptured Disc Claims Are Denied

Even with clear diagnostic imaging showing a herniated disc, a significant number of SSDI claims are still initially denied due to issues like:

• Lack of evidence nerve roots are compressed causing limitations
• Suggestion that further treatment or surgery could improve symptoms
• Doctor’s notes lacking detail on full extent of functional restrictions
• Allegations you remain capable of performing sedentary work
• Giving inconsistent information about symptoms and daily activities
• Appearing able-bodied at SSA appointments or hearings
• Failing to follow prescribed treatment plans without good cause
• Not having a supportive medical source statement from a physician

The SSA is extremely strict in requiring persuasive proof that your ruptured disc causes total, permanent disability – not just impairment.

Advantages of Legal Representation

Due to the SSA’s stringent evaluation process for herniated disc claims, most applicants can significantly benefit from hiring an experienced Social Security Disability Lawyer.

Our attorneys provide invaluable assistance like:

• Evaluating whether you currently meet impairment listing criteria
• Determining what additional evidence is required to substantiate your claim
• Guiding you on properly documenting all symptoms and limitations
• Incorporating supportive medical opinions and assessments into your file
• Handling paperwork, filings, and appeals with precision and strategy
• Advocating persuasively for your case at any required hearings

Rather than risking a wrongful denial trying to navigate this complex process alone, our team can build you the strongest possible claim. We have decades of experience helping people gain benefits approval for orthopedic conditions that qualify for disability.

Get a Free Consultation Today

Living with chronic, debilitating pain from a severely ruptured disc can take an immense toll – made worse by the stress of trying to get approved for much-needed disability benefits. We at Pilzer Klein understand what you’re going through and are here to help lift that burden.

Contact us today for a free, no-obligation case evaluation. We’ll take the time to listen, review your medical records, and clearly explain your legal options for securing Social Security Benefits for your ruptured discs.

Having the right legal representation can be the difference in getting your ruptured disc claim properly considered under the SSA’s strict guidelines. Don’t go it alone – maximize your chances for approval with Pilzer Klein advocating for your rights.