As our understanding of illnesses and conditions expands, so too does the Social Security Administration (SSA)’s list of recognized illnesses, injuries and conditions. Recently, the SSA formally recognized fibromyalgia as a debilitating condition. This means that people disabled by their fibromyalgia may be able to qualify for disability benefits from the SSA.
Fibromyalgia is a syndrome that affects a person’s entire body and causes debilitating pain. Though doctors are still attempting to understand the condition and how to treat it, they know that it results in body-wide pain, affecting joints, muscles, tissues and tendons. The physical causes of it are unknown, but the symptoms can be exacerbated by physical or emotional trauma, infections, sleep problems and certain abdominal disorders. Unfortunately, there is no cure for the condition at this time.
To even receive a diagnosis of fibromyalgia from a doctor, a patient must have experienced at least three months of chronic pain. Because fibromyalgia is a newly recognized condition, it is important to keep meticulous records of your visits to the doctor, your tests and any referrals. Presenting a compelling case to the SSA is your best bet to receive approval for disability benefits. An experienced attorney can help you include all necessary information and help you get the benefits you need as soon as possible.
If you have questions or concerns about applying for disability benefits, contact a Tulsa Social Security Disability attorney today for more information and your options for the future. We offer free evaluations of your case and you may reach us by phone at (918) 265-1404.
