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If it is substantially limiting and impedes your ability to work, cervical stenosis is a disability that can qualify you for Social Security Disability (SSD) benefits. If you can provide medical evidence that proves the extent of the resulting limitations, you can file a disability claim. You could receive both medical and financial benefits by applying for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI).
Rather than go through the application process alone, a North Carolina Social Security Disability lawyer can represent you at each phase. They can also help you gather the personal and medical information you need and file an appeal if the Social Security Administration (SSA) denies your initial claim.
What Is Cervical Stenosis?
Cervical stenosis is a painful medical condition caused by a narrowing of the spinal canal in the neck, causing compression of the spinal cord and spinal nerve roots.
Common cervical spinal stenosis symptoms include:
- Severe neck pain
- Limited range of motion in the neck
- Muscle weakness
- Numbness
- Tingling in the hand(s) or arm(s)
- Limited use of the hands
- Loss of bladder or bowel control
Possible medical treatment options for this form of spinal stenosis may include physical therapy, prescription medications, steroid injections, or surgery.
Depending on its severity, cervical stenosis can result in functional limitations that prevent you from writing, picking things up, and performing other daily activities.
It can also cause an abnormal gait, leading to difficulty with walking and balancing. You could also require support to stabilize yourself or stand for extended periods. These challenges can make it difficult to perform substantial gainful activity (SGA).
What Medical Evidence Is Needed to Prove Cervical Stenosis?
While lumbar stenosis is named in the SSA’s Listing of Impairments (Blue Book), cervical stenosis is not. However, this condition could still fall under the “Disorders of the Spine” category.
Knowing what the SSA considers a disability is only the start of the SSD application process. It also requires you to document your disability in detail with medical evidence that answers the following questions:
- When did your symptoms begin?
- What physical limitations are you experiencing?
- What treatment are you currently receiving?
- What work did you do before your diagnosis?
- How long is your condition expected to last?
Medical evidence can include medical records, prescription lists, and assistive medical devices. The SSD application process can be daunting on your own. An experienced disability attorney can help you gather the necessary evidence and build a compelling application.
How Can You Qualify for Spinal Stenosis Disability Benefits?
To get disability for stenosis, you must have been diagnosed with a disabling condition. Its duration must last for at least one year or result in your death.
You must also meet the qualification guidelines for the specific SSD program you apply for. If a disability attorney represents you, they can help you choose the appropriate program and submit a complete and accurate disability application.
Is Medical Care to Treat Cervical Stenosis Automatic?
Disability benefits are financial and medical. When Medicare benefits begin depends on the SSD program you enroll in. If you qualify for SSI benefits, you will receive state-sponsored Medicaid coverage.
If you enroll in SSDI, you will generally qualify for the Medicare program two years after you start receiving benefits, according to the SSA. You could enroll in Medicare Parts A, B, C, and D, some of which could require you to pay a premium. Your SSD attorney can clarify your options for getting the treatment you need.
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What Is the Difference Between SSDI and SSI?
Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) supports the needs of individuals who paid into the Social Security program while employed. You must have worked long enough and recently enough to qualify. A lawyer can help you establish your eligibility with appropriate documentation.
Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits support disabled individuals with limited resources and little to no financial means. An attorney can help you document your financial circumstances and prove your needs-based status.
Can You Receive Benefits From Both SSD Programs at the Same Time?
Sometimes, an SSD recipient can qualify for both SSDI and SSI. These are called concurrent benefits, and they may be available if your SSDI monthly compensation meets the income guidelines for SSI benefits.
You could also qualify for additional government benefits, including Medicare coverage, Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits (formerly called food stamps), and the Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP), which helps with residential heating expenses.
Do You Need an Attorney to Apply for SSD Benefits?
Applying for SSD benefits is challenging and time-consuming. On your own, it can also be stressful and frustrating. You are not required to hire a North Carolina Social Security Disability lawyer, but doing so could greatly benefit your claim. An SSD lawyer can:
- Handle your application: Your attorney can check for typos, errors of omission, and other oversights that might delay your application or lead to denial.
- File an appeal: You do not have to accept no for an answer or stop fighting for benefits if the SSA rejects your initial disability claim. Your attorney can represent you at each of the phases of the appeal process.
Another benefit of working with a lawyer is their ability to streamline the application process. They can also keep you updated and informed as your claim progresses.
What if You Cannot Afford a Social Security Disability Attorney?
Concern about the cost of hiring a lawyer should not mean you face the SSD application process alone. You can get legal representation at no out-of-pocket cost. They will cover any upfront costs, and you will compensate them when you receive disability compensation and owe no fees if you do not.
Find Out if Your Cervical Stenosis Qualifies as a Disability
Cervical stenosis can make everyday tasks and activities challenging. If you recently received a diagnosis and cannot return to work, we can clarify if your cervical stenosis qualifies you for disability benefits. We can also help you apply for benefits or appeal a denied application.
Learn more about how hard we will fight for you. Contact our consultation team at Farmer & Morris Law, PLLC, to get started with a free claim evaluation.
