Any back injury can debilitate you. Back pain restricts movement and makes it difficult to function. Spinal nerve root compression is one of the most painful back conditions; sometimes so limiting that patients can no longer hold a job. If you fall within this category, the good news is that you may qualify for Social Security Disability (SSD) benefits for spinal nerve root compression back pain.
What Is Spinal Nerve Root Compression & How Do I Qualify for Disability Benefits for Back Pain From a Pinched Nerve?
Spinal nerve root compression causes decreased motion and reflexes, weak muscles, and a loss of sensation. Sitting or standing for long periods are often incredibly painful, and walking, bending over, and lifting heavy items are near impossible for many patients. Vertebral fractures, degenerative disc disease, slipped discs, osteoarthritis, and other spinal trauma are all possible causes of this condition.
If you can’t work, Social Security Disability benefits may help you pay your bills and continue to support your family. This type of back pain from a pinched nerve is included in the Social Security Administration’s (SSA) Blue Book of qualifying impairments, but you must provide the SSA with proof of your condition to secure approval for your Disability benefits application.
How Do I Prove I Have Back Pain From a Pinched Nerve for Social Security Disability?
The SSA requires evidence of your condition before they will award any benefits. You’ll need to prove that you have the following:
- Weak muscles
- Severe Pain
- Slow/Reduced Reflexes and a loss of sensation
- Positive results on the straight leg raising test in both supine and sitting positions
Your spinal nerve root compression must also be present for at least 12 months or be expected to last at least a year to receive Disability benefits for back pain from a pinched nerve.
Because spinal nerve root compression does not necessarily show on standard medical tests such as x-rays and MRIs, you must include the following evidence with your SSD application:
- Any tests that show spine abnormalities
- Records indicating medications and type and frequency of treatments
- Doctor documented side effects and efficacy of treatments and medications
- Documentation of a comprehensive orthopedic spinal exam
Do I Need a Disability Lawyer for Back Pain from a Pinched Nerve?
The sad truth is that the SSA turns down 70% of the applications they receive. Many people denied Social Security Disability benefits have qualifying conditions but didn’t meet application requirements. Maybe they missed a question, didn’t answer thoroughly, or didn’t turn in enough evidence. Appeals are possible, but again, the approval rate is only 30%.
Your best chance of receiving benefits is working with a Social Security Disability lawyer with spinal root nerve compression experience. Our legal team at Disability Help Group in Arizona will walk you through the process of application or appeal and act as your liaison between your doctors and the SSA to make sure Social Security has everything they need to make an appropriate decision. Contact our Phoenix, Mesa, or Tucson office today by calling (888) 939-4692.