Living with chronic pain can be incredibly hard. After all, it can affect every aspect of your life. If you’re wondering whether you qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) due to chronic pain, the answer is yes. However, there are specific criteria you must meet to be eligible.
Underlying medical condition
Chronic pain itself is not listed as a qualifying disability in the Social Security Administration’s (SSA) Blue Book. However, it can be considered if it is a symptom of an underlying medical condition that is recognized by the SSA.
Chronic pain is often a symptom of conditions such as fibromyalgia, rheumatoid arthritis, or degenerative disc disease. To qualify for SSDI, you need to provide medical evidence that your chronic pain is a result of one of these or another recognized condition.
Severity of symptoms
It’s not just about having chronic pain. The severity of your symptoms plays a crucial role. The SSA will evaluate how your pain affects your ability to perform daily activities and work-related tasks. This includes considering the intensity, frequency and duration of your pain. You must demonstrate that your pain is severe enough to prevent you from maintaining gainful employment.
Ability to work
The SSA uses a concept called RFC to assess your ability to work despite your chronic pain. Your RFC is determined based on your medical records and other evidence, and it measures what you can still do in a work setting. If your RFC shows that you cannot perform your previous job or any other job due to your chronic pain, you may qualify for SSDI.
Obtaining SSDI can be tough, especially when dealing with chronic pain. If your initial application is denied, don’t lose hope. You have the right to appeal the decision. It can be beneficial to consult with a lawyer who specializes in SSDI cases to help you gather the necessary documentation and present a strong case.
