how severe does back issues have to be to quailfy for disability?
Hi all,
Totally confused!!!I've been struggling @ work,
since 2005 w/back issues.
Diaognosed w/degeneration of L3-L4,L4-L5&L5-S1,
with bulging disc in L3-L4.
Also,have had past issues w/panic disorders,which I
have been doing wonderful with up until all
the back issues&work!Bills,Bills&Pain!!!
Can anyone shed any light?
Thanks,Oddie
Re: how severe does back issues have to be to quailfy for disability?
I wish I knew the answer too. I also filed because of severe back issues. Maybe a disability attorney or advocate could help. I went to an attorney before I filed, and he looked over my medical records and said I had a good case. Still, I was denied the first two times, and am now waiting for a date with the ALJ. Getting denied twice, then getting approved at the ALJ hearing seems to happen a lot.
All you can do is try. Seeking the advice of an attorney or advocate will not cost anything. They only get paid if they win for you.
Re: how severe does back issues have to be to quailfy for disability?
Does your company where you are working have any short term disability and/or long term disability? I'm a little confused so please forgive me.
Are you saying that you are presently working and have been denied for SSDI? Or you are not working and have been Denied?
Because don't you have to be not working for six months or a year before you can apply for SSDI?
I guess the first thing I would do (if you are still working) is to see if you can get STD or LTD. Then go from there.
If you know they do not offer this go and see a lawyer to see what he thinks might help you. Are you married?
If so perhaps you can go on his insurance as you have to wait for and answer for social security.
I don't know if this helped or not but these are some things came to mind.
Good Luck,
Re: how severe does back issues have to be to quailfy for disability?
Hi...I have had seven surgeries on my spine...five neck fusions the last one being June of 07, and two lower back surgeries for stenosis, etc. I also suffer from depression because of Degenerative disc disease. I applied two years ago and was denied. I have over 200 pages of documentation from my pain doctor (who I see monthy) and as much or more than that from my Neuro Surgeon. I have an attorney and will be going before a judge in Jan. 09. I understand what you are going through and wish you luck. Unless you've been there with severe back and neck pain, I don't think you can fully understand.
