There’s nothing fun about chronic pain. Even though it may come and go at times, it’s enough to alter the way you live. And in the most serious of cases, it can impact your ability to do your job.
Chronic pain can affect almost any part of the body, including but not limited to joints, back, neck and muscles.
Some of the most common pain disorders include reflex sympathetic dystrophy (RSD), somatoform pain disorder and chronic regional pain syndrome.
Will you qualify for Social Security Disability benefits?
If chronic pain is altering your ability to earn a living, it may be time to seek Social Security Disability benefits. However, you must first prove to the Social Security Administration that you have a medically determinable impairment.
Here’s the problem with chronic pain: It’s not always easy to prove that it exists. The Social Security Administration needs more than your word.
Fortunately, there are a variety of diagnostic and lab tests that can help you obtain the diagnosis you’re seeking. For example, they can run lab tests and order imaging tests to pinpoint the underlying cause of your pain.
Just the same as physical ailments, a psychological cause of pain may make you eligible to receive Social Security Disability benefits. But once again, you need to back this up with a diagnosis from a qualified medical professional, such as a psychiatrist.
What about the duration?
Along with the above, you must be able to prove that your chronic pain has lasted or is expected to last for a period of 12 months or longer. The best way to do this is to stay in constant communication with your doctor, allowing them to run the tests necessary to confirm that your issue remains.
Chronic pain doesn’t always qualify you for Social Security Disability benefits, but that shouldn’t stop you from taking the applicable steps to learn more.
Should you be able to meet all the eligibility requirements, you may find that you can file a claim and receive benefits until your situation improves. That will go a long way in helping you financially as you recover.