Not sure..?

[grace058]

Have a question..
I was injured on the job back in Jan 2009 (fell on ice & am told I will never go back to that type of work). Still trying to get my pain under control (seeing a PM doc), & was told before that I have too many levels of damage & am NOT a surgical candidate. Have gone to a few computer classes (if you can call them that), in an attempt to re-train me for if & when the time comes that I am released to go back to some kind of work. I do have some "transferrable skills", but the problem is that I don't know of any employer that would allow me to lie down about every 2 hours, for a minimum of 2 hours, to help my back pain "let up".
Ok...now to my question...should I file for SSDI? I've read that it takes so many attempts before you are approved. Not sure what is going to happen with any kind of potential job, or if I will ever be able to go back to work. PM doc told me that I will more than likely experience pain the rest of my life (I'm 50 yrs old now), & our only hope is eventually finding the right "drug cocktail" that at least keeps my pain at a so-called tolerable level. Sitting more than an hour increases my pain; standing more than 1/2 hr increases my pain. I have to have help with minimal cleaning chores, including making my own bed, or I end up hurting worse for days!
Any input would be appreciated!!
Thanks!
Gracie

[Executor]

Originally Posted by grace058

I do have some "transferrable skills", but the problem is that I don't know of any employer that would allow me to lie down about every 2 hours, for a minimum of 2 hours, to help my back pain "let up".

Yes, that's the issue. This is exactly why some get approved and some don't. It's not about the "condition" itself, but rather the "effects" of the condition. What you describe is why it would be very difficult, if not impossible, for you to secure reasonable employment.

Throw in the pain meds, and you're even less employable. Not only would you not pass a pre-employment drug screen, but most employers will not hire (or retain) someone who they knowingly takes narcotics. Additionally, pain meds are a disqualification for driving, so getting to and from work is a big issue in itself. These are all issues as to the "effects" of your condition that should be emphasized on your application.

Originally Posted by grace058

Ok...now to my question...should I file for SSDI? I've read that it takes so many attempts before you are approved. Not sure what is going to happen with any kind of potential job, or if I will ever be able to go back to work. PM doc told me that I will more than likely experience pain the rest of my life (I'm 50 yrs old now), & our only hope is eventually finding the right "drug cocktail" that at least keeps my pain at a so-called tolerable level. Sitting more than an hour increases my pain; standing more than 1/2 hr increases my pain. I have to have help with minimal cleaning chores, including making my own bed, or I end up hurting worse for days!
Any input would be appreciated!!

If it were me, I would....Most definitely. Your best bet is to see if your Doc....Either your back Doc, GP, or pain Doc will support you in this effort. Those applications that include firm documentation by the Doc...i.e. recommending disability, are those who fair best. The more medical documentation you have, the better. I would set up an appointment with teh Doc who you think is most likely to support you, and talk to them in person about why you want to file....Tell them exactly what you've said here...About laying down and etc. I told my Doc that I have to protect myself and my family financially, or otherwise, I'd be in bad shape. Some Doc don't want to get involved due to paperwork, time, and etc., but some will.

You may even look into getting a disability lawyer or disability advocate. They know the "system".....Know how to word things the right way, and in many cases, once worked for SS, so they have contacts.

It can be a long fight, but if you are truly hurt and have a condition like what you describe, it's worth it and you should probably go ahead and get started. IMHO, the sooner the better....You don't want it to look like you're filing because you can't find work, but rather, filing because you can't go back to work.

I'd be glad to help as much as possible.

Regards,

Ex

[goldyfm]

Everything you wrote indicates that you probably are eligible for SSDI. I know I was told that I was unemployable because I do have to lie down during the day among other restrictions. If you have not done so, I suggest that you read on the SSA website because it is possible that once you are approved for SSDI that you could work part-time if your health allows. There are a number of programs available to the disabled to return to the workforce if that is an option for you. It could include Vocational Rehab, ticket to work program, etc. Just read on the site. There is always the option of using your skills to volunteer occasionally if you feel that a regular job, even part-time would be too restricting. If it were me, I would go ahead and apply as you have already been out of work since January and you do meet the 6 months limit for being disabled. I will advise that you read here as to how to word your application, as Executor posted as it is extremely important that you detail exactly how your illness affects your ability to function such as requiring frequent rest, not being able to sit, lifting restrictions, walking restrictions, concentration issues from pain meds, etc. The process generally is long and detailed, but with determination and persistence can persevere. Do not become disheartened as it is a long and tedious process for most people.

[SpineAZ]

Yes, do file as soon as possible. It can be a tough road to SSDI but it's worth it in the end. I may be filing myself soon - likely going to start out by using a SSDI advocacy/law firm so they can pave the way for me.

[Executor]

Originally Posted by goldyfm

Do not become disheartened as it is a long and tedious process for most people.

Very well said.....And this is perhaps the best advice one can get. Hang in there and keep fighting. We all can help as well.

Regards,

Ex