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Getting Disability Based On Spinal Nerve Root Compression

Any back injury can be debilitating. One of the most painful and limiting back injuries can be spinal nerve root compression. This type of injury can often be so bad that it causes those affected to stop working. If you find yourself in this position, a possible solution is to apply for disability benefits. If this sounds like a viable option for you, here is some important information you need to know.

What Is Spinal Nerve Root Compression?

Spinal nerve root compression is a condition that causes the loss of sensation, loss of motion, decreased reflexes, and the weakening of muscles. People suffering from this condition often have difficulty sitting or standing for long periods of time, walking without pain, bending over, or lifting heavy objects. The condition is often caused by osteoarthritis, slipped discs, degenerative disc diseases, vertebral fractures or other trauma to the spine.

Qualifying For Disability Benefits

Spinal nerve root compression is officially listed in the “list of impairments” that has been compiled by the Social Security Administration (SSA). However, that does not mean you will automatically get disability benefits. First, you must prove your condition is severe enough to warrant them.

Proving The Severity Of Your Condition

Before the SSA will award you disability benefits, you will need to prove the severity of your condition. The SSA will look at the evidence you provide regarding the following aspects of your condition:

  • Pain
  • Loss of sensation and reflexes
  • Muscle weakness
  • A positive result on the straight-leg-raising test in the sitting and supine position

Duration Of Your Condition

Your condition must have lasted at least 12 months or is expected to do so to qualify for benefits.

Necessary Medical Evidence

As with any application for disability benefits, you will need to provide medical evidence of your condition. The evidence needed for this condition is slightly different than that for other conditions since typical tests such as MRIs and x-rays will not necessarily show evidence of the condition. Instead, you must provide the following types of evidence:

  • A comprehensive spinal exam by an orthopedic doctor
  • MRIs, x-rays, CT scans, etc. only if they show spine abnormalities
  • Medical records that indicate the frequency of your treatments, medications taken, other treatments
  • Effects, side effects, and efficacy of any medications and treatments as confirmed and documented by your doctor

If you have any questions regarding applying for disability benefits because of your spinal nerve root compression or if you are ready to begin the application process, contact the Law Offices of Daniel Berger today.