Social Security Disability for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Severe carpal tunnel syndrome can make it excruciatingly painful and difficult to perform routine manual tasks at work. If your condition is so debilitating that it prevents you from doing your job duties, you may qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits.

However, having your carpal tunnel syndrome meet the Social Security Administration’s impairment listing requirements is only half the battle. While qualifying for SSDI with a repetitive strain injury can be challenging, it’s absolutely possible with the right approach.

A Greenville Social Security Disability Lawyer can help you put your strongest case forward from the initial application through any necessary appeals. Let’s explore what it takes to get approved for Social Security Disability for carpal tunnel syndrome.

Is Carpal Tunnel Considered a Disability Under Social Security?

Carpal tunnel syndrome is not specifically listed as a disability in the Social Security Administration’s Listing of Impairments, which can make it challenging for individuals with this condition to qualify for SSD benefits.

In order to prove that they are disabled and unable to work, individuals with carpal tunnel syndrome must provide medical evidence showing the severity of their condition and how it impacts their ability to perform tasks necessary for employment.

This may include demonstrating that their symptoms have persisted or are expected to last for at least one year, and that they are unable to perform substantial gainful activity.

Proving Your Symptoms Are Equivalent

To prove that they are disabled due to carpal tunnel syndrome, individuals may need to show that their symptoms are equivalent to another condition listed in the Social Security Administration’s guidelines.

They may also provide evidence that their condition has made it impossible for them to continue working at their previous job or find other suitable employment. This can be a challenging process and requires thorough documentation of medical records and functional limitations caused by the condition.

While carpal tunnel syndrome may not automatically qualify as a disability, individuals who are unable to work due to the severity of their symptoms may still be able to receive SSDI benefits if they can prove their condition is equivalent to either:

Inflammatory Arthritis

The SSA has a disability evaluation listing (14.09) for inflammatory arthritis that covers conditions like rheumatoid arthritis. If someone’s carpal tunnel syndrome causes chronic pain, inflammation, and deformities in the hands/wrists to a degree comparable to rheumatoid arthritis, they could potentially equal this listing.

Peripheral Neuropathy

Listing 11.14 of the Disability Evaluation allows the SSA to award benefits for peripheral neuropathies causing disorganization of motor function. Severe carpal tunnel syndrome involving significant nerve compression and musculoskeletal deficits in the upper extremities could medically equal this listing if:

• There is muscle weakness, atrophy, and sensory disturbances
• EMG/NCV studies confirm chronic neuropathy and nerve damage
• You have marked limitations using arms/hands despite treatment

Common Reasons Carpal Tunnel SSDI Claims Are Denied

Unfortunately, over 60% of initial SSDI claims for all conditions are denied by the SSA. Carpal tunnel syndrome has additional hurdles, as the SSA is skeptical of subjective symptom reports and conditions that may improve with treatment. Common reasons for denial include:

• Lack of objective medical evidence supporting severity
• Notation that surgery or injections could relieve symptoms
• Failure to follow prescribed treatment regimens
• Limited medical records noting functional limitations
• Inability to prove you can’t perform sedentary work

Don’t get discouraged if you receive a denial letter. The appeals process provides additional opportunities, especially if you have legal representation.

Evidence Is Key

To prove your carpal tunnel syndrome prevents gainful work, you may need:

• Electrodiagnostic testing confirming nerve root compression
• Medical imaging of affected areas (MRI, CT scan, X-rays, etc.)
• Records detailing symptoms like pain, numbness, tingling, muscle weakness
• Notes from physical/occupational therapists on functional limitations
• Medical source statements from doctors specifying work restrictions

Why You Need a Disability Lawyer for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

While legal representation isn’t required, having an experienced Social Security disability lawyer provide guidance dramatically improves your chances of being approved for benefits due to carpal tunnel syndrome.

We Can help you by:

• Using our knowledge of the SSA’s listing criteria and how your case will be evaluate
• Gathering the required medical evidence and documentation
• Ensuring your functional limitations are fully detailed by physicians
• Accurately completing forms and following proper claim procedures
• Requesting helpful consultative examinations and vocational testing
• Representation at appeals hearings to make persuasive legal argument

Our Social Security Disability Lawyers work on contingency, only taking a portion of back pay owed if your case is approved. You can get started with a free case evaluation to review your options.

Contact a Lawyer for Help Seeking Social Security Disability for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Trying to navigate the SSDI application process while living with debilitating carpal tunnel syndrome is incredibly difficult. However, the right legal counsel can put you in the best position to receive a fully favorable determination – whether in your initial claim or during the appeals process.

The Social Security Disability Lawyers of Pilzer Klein know what evidence is necessary and how to follow the required procedures to get you approved. 

More importantly, they know how to present your case in a compelling manner that leaves no doubt your condition permanently prevents you from sustaining gainful employment. Increase your chances of getting your claim approved by connecting with a proven Social Security disability firm. Contact us today for a free consultation.