Our bodies are incredibly resilient. Oftentimes, we can be subjected to serious injuries and our bodies, over the course of time, will repair themselves. But, at the same time our bodies are also extremely fragile. Some injuries can leave an individual completely and permanently disabled which, needless to say, can make life extremely difficult. Acquiring much needed medical attention can be costly, and being disabled may render an individual unable to work. Without income and with medical expenses piling up, financial uncertainties may arise.
Fortunately, however, disabled Missouri residents may be able to find financial relief by filing for Social Security Disability benefits. Take, for instance, a person who has suffered a traumatic injury, such as a spinal cord injury. Under the Social Security Administration’s regulations, an individual who has suffered a vertebral fracture may qualify for benefits if certain requirements are met.
The first way an individual can qualify for SSD benefits is by showing that the injury resulted in nerve root compression. This compression must be shown to cause pain, limitation on spine movement, sensory or reflex loss and difficulty raising a straight leg if the injury involves the lower back. Alternatively, confirmed spinal arachnoiditis or lumbar spinal stenosis may qualify an injured individual for benefits.
Satisfying these medical requirements can be tricky. An applicant for Social Security Disability benefits must be prepared to gather extensive medical and employment documentation, and may need to present legal arguments in support of the claim. With limited opportunities to make such arguments, these individuals need to be fully prepared before moving forward.
Source: Social Security Administration, “1.00 Musculoskeletal System – Adult,” accessed on Feb. 14, 2016
