In my previous post, I discussed the Social Security Administration’s definitions of the elements of disabling musculoskeletal disorders. Now that you understand what musculoskeletal disorders are, it’s time to delve into what it’s going to take for you to qualify for disability benefits from Social Security. One of the most important Social Security questions to ask when it comes to this type of disability is: are you suffering from a “loss of function”?
What does that mean? The SSA defines a loss of function for musculoskeletal disorders as “the inability to ambulate effectively on a sustained basis for any reason… or the inability to perform fine and gross movements effectively on a sustained basis for any reason.” In layman’s terms, this means you either have a lot of trouble walking and getting around or have trouble doing things like grasping, reaching, pulling, pushing, and fingering; basically, the things that most people need to be able to do not just to work a regular full-time job, but also to take care of themselves on a daily basis. Beyond simply having one or both of these issues on a temporary basis, it has to be something that lasts (or will last) for 12 months or longer.
Where Does Pain Factor In?
For many suffering from musculoskeletal impairments, the issue isn’t that they literally can’t walk or use their arms, hands, and fingers. Rather, it’s that doing so causes them pain so intolerable that they just can’t bear to do it for any sustained amount of time.
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While pain isn’t something the SSA considers as an impairment on its own, and it’s difficult to prove since there is no objective test that effectively measures pain, a good disability firm knows that it can be a vital factor when deciding whether or not to award benefits. The key is to connect the pain with impairments that are objectively medically determinable and have been found to cause other individuals pain as well. Those suffering from pain as a primary symptom should keep a pain diary and work with their physician to maintain an official record.
Of course, it’s all well and good to know what musculoskeletal disorders and “loss of function” are – if you hope to receive disability benefits, you’re going to need to know how the SSA decides whether you qualify or not. Next time we’ll delve into Social Security questions on diagnosis and determination. Until then, check out The Social Security Disability Puzzle, our free eBook.
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