Qualifying for Benefits for Facet Arthropathy

If you are unable to work due to a spinal condition, it is important to consider applying for disability benefits from the Social Security Administration (SSA). By doing so, you may be eligible to receive up to $3,627 per month. However, it is important to note that documentation is a crucial aspect of the application process and can significantly impact the success of your claim.

What if Facet Arthropathy?

Facet Arthropathy is a form of arthritis affecting joints in the spine.

This condition can cause a range of symptoms, including back pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility. Facet arthropathy can also cause pain that radiates from the spine into other areas of the body, such as the hips, legs, or shoulders. In some cases, the condition can also cause numbness or tingling in the affected areas. Factors that can contribute to the development of facet arthropathy include age, repetitive strain or injury, and genetics. 

Treatment options for facet arthropathy may include pain medication, physical therapy, and, in severe cases, surgery. Facet arthropathy is a back condition that can cause pain and limit movement. The condition occurs when the facet joints that connect the vertebrae in the spine begin to deteriorate. According to the Social Security Administration's (SSA) Blue Book, facet arthropathy may qualify as a disability if it meets the guidelines in Section 1.04, which lists musculoskeletal conditions that may qualify for financial assistance.

Musculoskeletal disorders, including facet arthropathy, are defined by the SSA as impairments caused by various factors such as acquired, congenital, or hereditary factors, as well as infectious, degenerative, and inflammatory processes. However, meeting the Blue Book criteria alone may not guarantee disability benefits. In such cases, a Residual Functional Capacity (RFC) assessment can help to determine if the condition limits the individual's physical capabilities and qualifies them for disability benefits.

Qualifying for Benefits for Facet Arthropathy

Although facet arthropathy is on the list of musculoskeletal disorders mention under Section 1.04 of the Blue Book, you might not qualify for disability benefits.

The RFC assessment helps the SSA determine if you can work, and if so, what type of work you can do. The RFC takes into account your physical limitations and how they affect your ability to work. For example, if you have difficulty standing for long periods of time, the RFC assessment will note this and indicate that you cannot perform a job that requires standing for long periods of time.

If your RFC assessment shows that you cannot perform any type of work, you may still be eligible for disability benefits even if your specific condition is not listed in the Blue Book. This is because the SSA will consider not only your medical condition, but also your age, education, work experience, and any transferable skills you may have. The SSA will use this information to determine if you can work in any other jobs that exist in significant numbers in the national economy.

In summary, facet arthropathy may be considered a disability if the severity of the symptoms meets the guidelines in the Blue Book. However, even if it does not meet these guidelines, you may still be eligible for disability benefits if an RFC assessment shows that you cannot perform any type of work. It is important to provide the SSA with detailed medical records and other documentation to support your claim. 

Other Conditions that May Qualify for SSDI for Spinal Disorders

There are various conditions that may qualify an individual to be added to the spinal disabilities list. These include:

• Herniated Disc: This occurs when the soft center of a spinal disc protrudes through the hard exterior layer, causing symptoms such as nerve irritation and numbness in limbs. Physical therapy is a common treatment method.
• Compressed Nerves: Also known as pinched nerves, this condition often results from repetitive movements or prolonged periods of holding the same position. Nerve compression mostly occurs in bones, tendons, and ligaments, and can cause damage to nerves moving through narrow spaces with little soft tissue.
• Degenerative Disc Disease: This condition is frequently caused by aging and occurs when spinal discs stop providing cushioning between vertebrae. It can cause pain and weakness along the spinal column, and physical therapy and exercise may help alleviate symptoms.
• Osteoarthritis: This develops when the flexible tissue at the end of bones deteriorates and can lead to constant pain in the hands, hips, knees, and/or lower back. Serious cases may require surgery.
• Spinal Stenosis: This refers to the narrowing of the spinal column, which puts pressure on the spine and nerves, leading to intense pain, muscle weakness, and numbness in the back.
• Facet Hypertrophy: This occurs when the facet joints of the spine become enlarged due to conditions like arthritis or injury, causing pain, stiffness, and loss of motion.
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• Applying for SSDI Benefits for Facet Arthropathy and Other Spinal Disorders

If you are suffering from a spinal condition, whether it is the result of an injury or a degenerative disorder such as facet hypertrophy, you may be eligible for SSDI or SSI benefits. Dealing with a spinal condition can be overwhelming, especially when it comes to paying bills and caring for your loved ones. Fortunately, Social Security Disability attorneys and advocates are available to help you through every step of the approval process. They can assist you in preparing your initial application and provide guidance for the reconsideration and appeals processes. You may also benefit from knowing the signs that indicate you are likely to be approved for disability benefits. 

If your claim for disability benefits is denied, the SSA will provide you with an explanation for the denial. Based on the information provided, you can determine what additional documentation or evidence is required to support your claim and submit it with your appeal. It is crucial to gather and submit all necessary information to the SSA, as your claim will not be approved without it. Missing the appeal deadline means you will have to start the application process again.

Hiring a disability lawyer can ensure that you meet all the deadlines and provide all the required documentation for your claim. You can enlist the help of a disability attorney at The Law Office of Irene Ruzin any point during the claims process.​