Back injuries can be painful, even completely debilitating. A significant back injury could make it difficult—if not impossible—for a person to work on a full-time basis. This raises an important question: Does Social Security disability cover back pain? The short answer is ‘yes’—Social Security disability does cover back injuries. Though, there are some challenges that claimants need to be ready to take on.
Social Security Disability Benefits for Back Pain
If you are dealing with severe back pain and you are no longer able to work, you may be eligible for Social Security disability benefits—either through a Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) claim or a Supplement Security Income (SSI) claim. Indeed, a number of different agonizing back injuries and back problems may be covered by Social Security disability, including:
- Degenerative disc disorders;
- A herniated disc;
- Arthritic conditions, including osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis;
- Nerve compression conditions;
- Spinal stenosis;
- Spinal fractures and vertebrae fractures; and
- Severe sprains and strains.
Although back pain is a condition that is covered by SSDI/SSI, the Social Security Administration (SSA) often makes the claims process challenging. The primary issue is a relatively simple one: back pain can be difficult to prove with medical evidence. If you are dealing with a back issue, it is crucial that you get immediate medical care and that your doctor carefully documents the severity of your injury.
What to Do If Your Back Pain SSD Claim is Denied
According to the federal government’s own data, approximately two-thirds of initial Social Security disability claims are rejected. The unfortunate reality is that the number of denied initial claims is even higher for back pain disability cases. The good news is that you have the right to appeal if your initial application was denied.
Do not miss out on your opportunity to seek the full and fair disability benefits that you rightfully deserve. There are strict deadlines to file an appeal. A Social Security disability attorney with experience representing people with back pain and back injuries can help you craft a persuasive, well-supported appeal of the SSDI denial or SSI denial.
