Musculoskeletal Disability
Functional losses lasting at least 12 months — affecting walking, fine and gross movements, or causing chronic pain.
What you need to know about musculoskeletal disability.
Many common musculoskeletal disabilities result in one or more functional losses that last for at least 12 months. The Social Security Administration evaluates these impairments based on objective medical findings, treatment history, and the practical impact on the ability to sustain work.
Three categories of qualifying loss.
Inability to ambulate effectively
- Extreme limitation of the ability to walk — examples include the inability to walk without a walker, two canes or crutches; to use standard public transportation; to carry out routine daily activities; or to climb a few steps using a single handrail. Independent walking inside the home is not, by itself, effective ambulation.
Inability to perform fine and gross movements effectively
- Extreme loss of function of both upper extremities — inability to prepare a simple meal and feed oneself, take care of personal hygiene, sort and handle papers or files, or place files in a cabinet at or above waist level.
Pain or other symptoms
- For pain to be considered a contributing factor, medical or laboratory findings must show a medically determinable impairment that could reasonably be expected to produce the pain — together with the criteria for functional limitations.
Detailed, objective findings required.
Diagnosis and evaluation of musculoskeletal impairments must include a detailed description of the rheumatologic, orthopedic, neurological, and other findings appropriate to the specific impairment — determined on the basis of objective observation during the examination, not simply a report of the individual's allegation.
Because abnormal physical findings may be intermittent, a record of ongoing management and evaluation must establish their presence over a period of time.
A person who uses an orthotic or prosthetic device should be evaluated with the device in place to determine maximum functional ability. When a hand-held assistive device such as a cane, crutch, or walker is used, examination should be with and without the device — unless contraindicated by the medical judgment of a physician.
What if you haven't received ongoing treatment?
An individual who has not received ongoing treatment despite the existence of a severe impairment will be evaluated on the basis of the current objective medical evidence along with the individual's medical history, symptoms, and medical-source opinions.
Treatments for musculoskeletal disorders may have effects — both beneficial and adverse — that vary widely and may be temporary or long-term. The finding regarding the impact of treatment must be based on a sufficient period of treatment to permit proper consideration or judgment about future functioning.
This summary cannot cover every medical condition or functional loss. The Social Security Administration offers more detail on its website.
How a Social Security attorney can help your case.
Depending on the severity of the musculoskeletal disability, it could be impossible to perform any type of physical work. The Social Security Administration or a private insurer, however, does not award benefits to everyone — for these cases, the SSA diligently considers your condition with the evidence presented and carefully determines whether you are fit for work. A single problem in the application can lead to denial.
This is why it is essential to hire a Social Security attorney who understands musculoskeletal disabilities and how they affect a person's ability to work. With a knowledgeable attorney, you can build the strongest possible case. The attorneys at Herren Law diligently consider every aspect of your condition, gather evidence and support statements from leading medical sources, and represent your interests during the SSA hearing.
Affordable, experienced help you can trust.
Herren Law does not charge a fee for a consultation, and we work on a contingency basis — you do not owe us anything unless you receive benefits.
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