Physical labor may be part of your job in Whittier, but as the years go on, this hard work can be difficult on your body leading to chronic pain.
Chronic pain is difficult to live with and can often cause you to have to leave the workforce. If so, you may want to learn more about whether you can pursue Social Security Disability benefits for chronic pain.
Basic requirements for SSD benefits
In order to be eligible to receive SSD benefits, you must be able to show that your medical condition has gone on for a year or more, or that it is expected to last a year or more. You must also be able to show that your medical condition is so severe that you cannot perform any kind of full-time work, referred to as “substantial gainful activity.” Finally, you must qualify under one of the conditions noted on the Social Security Administration’s Listing of Impairments.
SSD benefits for chronic pain
Chronic pain can be the result of pain disorders affecting your back, head, joints or nerves. Sometimes pain disorders constitute a disability.
The Social Security Administration will want to see evidence demonstrating that your pain disorder has caused a loss of function. Records of your symptoms without further evidence is insufficient to qualify you for benefits. The SSA will want to see evidence such as lab tests, medical imaging and results of medical examinations.
Note that chronic pain on its own is not in the Listing of Impairments, but related conditions such as arthritis are. Otherwise, your eligibility will be based upon an evaluation of your residual functional capacity.
Fight for the benefits you deserve
It is understandable that the process of seeking SSD benefits can be frustrating and taxing, especially when you are already suffering from a major medical condition such as a pain disorder.
Still, it is important to fight for the benefits you deserve. It may take time and persistence, but you can obtain the benefits you need to make ends meet following your disability. An SSD attorney can be a useful resource to those who are unfamiliar with the SSD application process and need a helping hand and dedicated advocate.
