Musculoskeletal Disorders and Social Security Disability Benefits
TELL US WHAT HAPPENED SO WE CAN HELP. FREE CONSULTATION
Contact Us About Your Case
FREE Consultation Today.
What Are Musculoskeletal Disorders Under SSA Guidelines?
Musculoskeletal disorders affect the bones, joints, muscles, ligaments, and spine. The Social Security Administration (SSA) recognizes these conditions in its Blue Book listings under Section 1.00. Common examples include:
- Degenerative disc disease
- Herniated discs
- Spinal stenosis
- Scoliosis
- Osteoarthritis
- Rheumatoid arthritis
- Osteoporosis
- Fibromyalgia
- Muscular dystrophy
- Amputations and severe fractures
- Epilepsy
- Multiple Sclerosis
These conditions can cause chronic pain, limited mobility, and reduced ability to perform work-related tasks.
How the SSA Evaluates Musculoskeletal Disability Claims
Meeting a Blue Book Listing
The Social Security Disability Blue Book is the official manual used by the Social Security Administration (SSA) to evaluate medical conditions for disability benefits. It contains a comprehensive list of impairments—ranging from musculoskeletal disorders to mental health conditions—that the SSA considers severe enough to prevent someone from working. Each impairment is paired with strict medical criteria. If your medical records demonstrate that you meet these criteria, you may qualify for benefits without additional analysis.
If your condition meets the specific medical criteria outlined in the SSA Blue Book, you may qualify automatically. For example, spinal disorders with nerve root compression or inflammatory arthritis with severe joint damage.
Sequential Evaluation Process
If your condition does not meet a listing, the SSA uses a five-step sequential evaluation process:
Common Musculoskeletal Disorders That Qualify for SSDI
Each disorder has unique medical evidence requirements. Supporting blogs will dive deeper into each condition, but here’s a quick overview:
- Degenerative Disc Disease: MRI/X-ray evidence of disc degeneration and functional limitations.
- Arthritis (Osteoarthritis & Rheumatoid): Joint deformity, chronic pain, and limited range of motion.
- Fibromyalgia: Documented widespread pain and tender points with functional restrictions.
- Muscular Dystrophy: Progressive muscle weakness supported by genetic or biopsy evidence.
- Amputations/Fractures: Loss of limb function or inability to ambulate effectively.
If you are suffering from one of these disorders and want to see if you might qualify for disability benefits, we are social security disability lawyers in Dallas, and we represent people nationwide.
Evidence Needed to Support Your Claim
Strong medical documentation is critical. Evidence may include:
- Imaging studies (MRI, CT, X-rays)
- Physician treatment notes
- Functional capacity evaluations
- Surgical records
- Statements about daily limitations
How MLF Legal Helps You Win Disability Benefits
Navigating SSDI claims is complex. At MLF Legal, our social security disability attorneys:
- Review your medical records for SSA compliance
- Strengthen your case with functional evidence
- Represent you at hearings and appeals
- Maximize your chances of approval
Call MLF Legal today for a free case evaluation. Don’t navigate SSDI alone. We have social security disability attorneys in Dallas who represent people nationwide.
FAQs About Musculoskeletal Disorders
What musculoskeletal disorders qualify for Social Security Disability?
Conditions like degenerative disc disease, arthritis, scoliosis, fibromyalgia, and muscular dystrophy may qualify if they meet SSA criteria or limit your ability to work.
Do I need to meet a Blue Book listing to be approved?
Not always. Many claims are approved through the sequential evaluation process if medical evidence shows you cannot work.
How long does the SSDI process take?
Initial decisions can take 3–6 months, but appeals may extend the timeline.