Does Chronic Pain Qualify For Social Security Disability In Florida?

There are a variety of different types of medical conditions that can leave you suffering from chronic pain. Living with constant discomfort can take a heavy toll on both your physical and mental health while preventing you from working or engaging in your usual hobbies and activities. Social Security disability insurance (SSDI) can help offset lost income, enabling you to continue providing for yourself and your family. Our Orlando Social Security disability lawyer explains more about the causes of chronic pain and when you may qualify for benefits. 

Common Causes Of Chronic Pain

Johns Hopkins Medicine advises that pain starts in nerve receptors located throughout the body. An injury, illness, or ongoing health condition you suffer from can trigger these receptors, causing discomfort that is difficult to treat. Acute pain typically lasts for several days or weeks. When it goes on for months or years, it is considered chronic.

Chronic pain is one of the most frequent complaints that doctors deal with and leave millions of people suffering. Among the most common causes of chronic pain include:

• Accidental injuries, particularly those involving the head, back, neck, or spinal cord;
• Arthritis, which impacts more than 50 million people;
• Autoimmune diseases, such as fibromyalgia and multiple sclerosis;
• Cancer, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, and other serious and ongoing health conditions.

Filing A Social Security Disability Claim For Chronic Pain

If you suffer chronic pain that prevents you from working for a year or longer, you may be entitled to disability benefits through the Social Security Administration (SSA). The SSA typically covers a wide range of injuries, illnesses, and chronic conditions that can result in chronic pain. However, you will have to provide thorough documentation and even then, getting your claim approved can be a challenging and time-consuming process.

The first step is to be aware that regardless of the amount of pain you are in, your disability claim will not be approved unless you can prove you have a qualifying underlying health condition. To avoid denials or delays, follow these steps:

• Report your symptoms to your doctor;
• Follow their instructions regarding diagnostic testing, treatment, and activity restrictions;
• Get a firm diagnosis of any medical conditions causing or contributing to chronic pain;
• Keep records of all medical providers you see and treatments, such as physical therapy or chiropractic care;
• Keep a journal, detailing your symptoms and how chronic pain impacts all areas of your life.

Request A Consultation With Our Florida Social Security Disability Lawyer

Be aware that when filing a Social Security disability application for chronic pain, benefits are often denied. However, you do have the right to file an appeal. At Farrell Disability Law, we provide the trusted legal guidance you need throughout this process and can help you gather the evidence needed to get the benefits you deserve. To discuss your case, call or contact our  Florida Social Security disability lawyer online and request a consultation in our Orlando or Jacksonville office today.

Sources:

hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/chronic-pain

ssa.gov/benefits/disability/

ssa.gov/OP_Home/cfr20/404/404-1529.htm