How To Document Fibromyalgia For A Florida Long-Term Disability Claim

Fibromyalgia causes chronic, widespread pain and other troubling symptoms. Unfortunately, while medications and other therapies may help somewhat, there is no known cure.

For those with long-term disabilities in Florida due to fibromyalgia, getting the benefits needed to offset lost income is often a frustrating and challenging process. Our Orlando long-term disability lawyer has extensive experience helping clients in these cases. Find out how to document your condition, which is pivotal in getting your claim approved.

When Fibromyalgia Results In Long-Term Disabilities In Florida

Doctors do not know what causes fibromyalgia or how to cure it. The only thing certain is the devastating symptoms it causes.

The National Institutes of Health states that doctors suspect fibromyalgia stems from problems in how the brain processes pain. Fibromyalgia can impact anyone, but women are more likely than men to suffer from the condition.  Symptoms it causes that can result in long-term disabilities:

• Chronic pain in the arms, legs, chest, back, buttocks, and head;
• Joint and muscle stiffness;
• Numbness, tingling, and general weakness in the arms and legs;
• Excessive fatigue and memory impairments.

There are no tests to prove whether you have fibromyalgia. A diagnosis is generally made based on physical exams and self-reporting of symptoms. When fibromyalgia progresses to the point where you are unable to work, long-term disability benefits in Florida may be available through your employer. However, with varying symptoms and no official means of making a diagnosis, gathering evidence insurers need to approve your claim is often challenging.

Evidence Needed To Support A Florida Fibromyalgia Disability Claim

Employer-provided long-term disability insurance can help offset lost wages if fibromyalgia prevents you from working for a year or longer. However, insurers are quick to deny these claims due to insufficient evidence.

The Mayo Clinic states that the main factor in making a fibromyalgia diagnosis is widespread pain lasting three months or longer in four out of five areas. Blood work and other tests primarily rule out other disorders.

Lack of evidence is a common reason for long-term disability denials in Florida. What types of evidence can you use to support your fibromyalgia disability claim?

• Statements from your doctor affirming that you are disabled due to fibromyalgia;
• The results of blood work, x-rays, Magnetic Resonance Imagery, and other tests;
• Lists of other providers and specialists you have seen;
• Records from all doctor visits, hospital stays, and any treatments;
• Lists of medications you have been on over the years;
• A personal journal documenting your condition, how it progressed, and how it now impacts your ability to work and engage in regular activities.

To Get Benefits For Fibromyalgia, Contact Our Florida Long-Term Disability Lawyer

Farrell Disability Law protects the rights of people who suffer long-term disabilities in Florida due to fibromyalgia. To get the benefits you are entitled to, give us a call or contact our office online. Schedule a consultation today in our Orlando or Jacksonville office with our Florida long-term disability lawyer.

Sources:

niams.nih.gov/health-topics/fibromyalgia

mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/fibromyalgia/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20354785