Why is it so hard to get disability for fibromyalgia?
To make things even more confusing, fibromyalgia symptoms can come and go over time. That's why it can take a long time to go from fibromyalgia symptoms to a fibromyalgia diagnosis. Fibromyalgia appears to be linked to changes in how the brain and spinal cord process pain signals.
Does Social Security recognize fibromyalgia as a disability?
The short answer is yes, fibromyalgia can cause permanent disability. In fact, the Social Security Administration (SSA) categorizes fibromyalgia as a disability, but only in certain situations. Their rules can be restrictive, though.
How to get approved for disability for fibromyalgia?
They include:
- symptoms of pain in joints, muscles, and surrounding tissues that must be severe and present for at least 3 months
- documented evidence that rules out other conditions
- statements from you and others about any restrictions on, or inabilities to perform, your daily activities
- whether FM prevents you from working
- six or more ongoing signs or symptoms of FM
How do you get disability benefits for fibromyalgia?
- Are you working? Your disability must be “total”.
- Is your medical condition severe? ...
- Is your medical condition on the List of Impairments? ...
- Can you do the work you did before? ...
- Can you do any other type of work? ...
How hard is it to get disability for fibromyalgia?
Fibromyalgia (FM) is one of the harder conditions to get approved for as a disability in the United States. Because the symptoms are often self-reported, you'll need medical documents and a doctor to support your case. However, it's possible to have a successful claim for FM.
What type of disability is fibromyalgia?
Fibromyalgia - Condition and Symptoms Fibromyalgia, a chronic pain disorder also known as fibromyositis, fibrositis, muscular rheumatism, and FM, is a disabling condition that causes extreme suffering for millions of people in the United States.
Why is fibromyalgia not a disability?
Receiving a diagnosis for fibromyalgia does not automatically qualify you for Social Security disability benefits. You have to demonstrate the symptoms of the musculoskeletal disorder negatively impact your ability to hold down a steady job.
Is fibromyalgia a disability 2020?
The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) does not contain a list of medical conditions that constitute disabilities. Instead, the ADA has a general definition of disability that each person must meet. Therefore, some people with fibromyalgia will have a disability under the ADA and others will not.
Can you work if you have fibromyalgia?
Many people with fibromyalgia continue to work full or part time. But the chronic pain and fatigue associated with fibromyalgia often make working very difficult. If you are employed, it's important to learn about managing fibromyalgia symptoms and coping with pain and fatigue.
Can you get Social Security for fibromyalgia?
Is It Possible to Be Approved for SSD With Fibromyalgia? Contrary to what you may have read elsewhere, it IS possible to be approved for Social Security Disability (SSDI) benefits with fibromyalgia (FMS) or chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS or ME/CFS), as long as you meet the Social Security Administration's criteria.
How do you get a disability case for fibromyalgia?
How To Win A Fibromyalgia Disability CaseHelp your Social Security disability lawyer gather the right evidence.Provide evidence detailing your work to acquire the right diagnosis and treatment.Be well-prepared for your court hearings.Get a lawyer for your appeal.
How serious is fibromyalgia?
Fibromyalgia is typically not life threatening but can affect day-to-day activities. Pain, fatigue, and lack of sleep that occur in fibromyalgia can impair the ability to function or concentrate. Patients may also feel frustrated due to their condition, and this can lead to anxiety or depression.
How Does Social Security View Fibromyalgia?
Traditionally, when a disability claims examiner received a case in which the only reason for disability was fibromyalgia, the outlook for an initi...
How Can You Prove You Have A Medically Determinable Impairment?
To be considered for disability benefits, you must have an impairment established by medical evidence such as lab tests and medical "signs" of the...
What Happens If Your Fibromyalgia Is Found to Be A MDI
If the SSA determines that you have the medically determinable impairment of fibromyalgia, Social Security's evaluation is not over; in fact, it ha...
Get Help from Professionals
More so than in other cases, hiring a lawyer to appeal a denial of benefits for fibromyalgia can really help, since disability lawyers are familiar...
How to contact a disability attorney for fibromyalgia?
Contact a Social Security disability attorney at 512-454-4000 for a free consultation and see if you can get disability benefits while suffering from Fibromyalgia. If you have been denied disability don’t give up!
What are the complications of fibromyalgia?
Fibromyalgia can cause complications such as: 1 Chronic fatigue 2 Widespread pain 3 Increased tenderness and sensitivity 4 Irritable Bowel Syndrome 5 Development or worsening of depression 6 Development of worsening of anxiety 7 Brain “fogginess” or inability to focus
What is fibromyalgia disorder?
Author Attorney Greg Reed: Fibromyalgia is a disorder that effects the muscles and soft tissue. It is characterized by widespread pain accompanied by sleep problems, muscle fatigue, mood and memory issues. Depression and anxiety are common, along with headaches and numbness in extremities. Fibromyalgia is not included in ...
What does it mean if your disability is not listed on the SSA list?
If your disease is not listed this does not mean you cannot get disability, it means you must prove you cannot maintain employment due to your limitations.
Is fibromyalgia included in the SSD list?
This list includes criteria for what should automatically be considered a disabling medical or mental condition. Fibromyalgia is not included in this list.
Does Social Security deny fibromyalgia?
For years, the Social Security Administration (the federal government agency that handles all SSD applications) would routinely deny fibromyalgia claims. This is partly because the medical community is still unsure of what causes fibromyalgia and partly because fibromyalgia presents different symptoms in different patients.
Can fibromyalgia be considered for disability?
Depression and anxiety are common, along with headaches and numbness in extremities. Fibromyalgia is not included in the SSA’s list however, this does not mean that you do not qualify for disability benefits. Recently, the SSA changed its rule about fibromyalgia and now gives application evaluators specific guidelines when considering ...
How long does it take to stop working with fibromyalgia?
The final step is determining whether your condition (s) forces you to stop working for at least one year. This is how the SSA defines the word “disability,” and a fibromyalgia diagnosis alone isn’t enough. The SSA looks for additional evidence from your doctor that supports your claim. Your rheumatologist, osteopath or any doctor that treats your fibromyalgia should complete a residual functional capacity (RFC) form. Your doctor should give clear examples showing why fibromyalgia limits your ability to work 40 hours per week (a.k.a. your “functionality” ). These things may help support your disability claim:
How many hours can a fibromyalgia patient work?
Your doctor should give clear examples showing why fibromyalgia limits your ability to work 40 hours per week (a.k.a. your “functionality” ).
What does the SSA look for in a disability claim?
Next, you should know what the SSA looks for when reviewing fibromyalgia claims for disability. As you probably know, no fibromyalgia test exists. Instead, most doctors look at many different symptoms that persist over time to make a diagnosis. And, in fact, that’s exactly what the SSA looks for in your disability claim.
How long does it take for fibromyalgia to end?
To do this, you must: That first requirement is what gets most applicants turned down. Once you stop working for 60 months , your federal disability insurance coverage automatically ends.
Can you get SSD if you have fibromyalgia?
But if your fibro pain doesn’t meet that three-month minimum requirement, you likely won’t get approved for SSD benefits.
Do women have more fibromyalgia than men?
Women are much more likely to develop fibro than men. When it comes to fibromyalgia and getting disability benefits, be sure to list all related health issues on your application. Many people with fibromyalgia experience the following related health problems: Tension headaches. Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders.
Can fibromyalgia be cured?
While fibro has no known cure, a good attorney knows how to get you the most benefits you deserve paid faster. We can match you with the closest disability attorney in your area who’s available to help you. Most doctors don’t know how to perform a “tender point” medical exam or document your results.
What to do if you have fibromyalgia?
In addition, if only a primary care physician or internist has given you a fibromyalgia diagnosis, try to arrange a visit with a specialist; a diagnosis made by a rheumatologist will be more credible to a disability examiner or judge and will strengthen your Social Security disability claim or appeal. If cognitive or mental issues add ...
Why is fibromyalgia denied?
Part of the reason is that Social Security doesn't have a disability "listing" for the condition.
Why doesn't Social Security have a disability list?
(Social Security's disability listings provide the criteria needed for many different impairments to be approved as disabilities. )
Is fibromyalgia a determinable impairment?
Social Security's published ruling explains when fibromyalgia should be found as a "medically determinable impairment ," which is the first test you must pass when applying for disability. (To be considered for disability benefits, you must have an impairment that has been established by medical evidence such as lab tests and medical "signs" ...
Does the Social Security Administration have a ruling on fibromyalgia?
The Social Security Administration (SSA) has, however, published a ruling giving guidance to disability claims examiners and administrative law judges (ALJs) as to how to assess fibromyalgia cases. This ruling has helped reduce the number of fibromyalgia claimants who are denied at the initial application stage and increase the number ...
Can impairment be established only by symptoms?
In other words, your impairment cannot be established only by your reports of your symptoms. This is the requirement of having a medically determinable impairment (MDI).) The ruling directs claims examiners and judges to rely on criteria issued by the American College of Rheumatology (ACR) to determine whether an applicant has fibromyalgia, ...
Can a neurologist help with fibromyalgia?
Your primary care doctor's opinion can also be helpful, not so much on the diagnosis of fibromyalgia, but to supplement the rheumatologist's opinion on the details of your claim. Talk to a Disability Lawyer.
How to explain fibromyalgia to your boss?
First, openly discuss your fibromyalgia with your boss and coworkers. Talk about the symptoms of pain, fatigue, and stiffness. Explain how you may have good days and bad days. Explaining fibromyalgia will give people at work a better idea of what you are feeling each day.
What is disability in Social Security?
The Social Security disability regulations define disability as "the inability to do any substantial gainful activity due to your medical or mental problem.". In addition, according to the Social Security Administration, your condition must interfere with basic work-related activities.
How to address fatigue and weakness?
To address fatigue and weakness, employers should consider: Reducing or eliminating physical exertion and workplace stress. Scheduling periodic rest breaks away from the workstation. Allowing a flexible work schedule and flexible use of leave time. Allowing the employee to work from home.
What happens if you don't get Social Security?
If it doesn't, your claim won't be considered. Instead, Social Security will find that you are not disabled. The combined effect of having multiple impairments is taken into account. That can be important for many people with fibromyalgia.
Can you get disability for fibromyalgia?
In addition, if you have tried different jobs and are unable to work, you might consider applying for disability. Disability may be difficult to get, however, because of rules about work capacity.
Can fibromyalgia make you work?
Fibromyalgia: Work and Dis ability. Many people with fibromyalgia continue to work full or part time. But the chronic pain and fatigue associated with fibromyalgia often make working very difficult. If you are employed, it's important to learn about managing fibromyalgia symptoms and coping with pain and fatigue.
Is fibromyalgia a disability under the ADA?
Therefore, some people with fibromyalgia will have a disability under the ADA and others will not.
How long does it take for fibromyalgia to be considered a disability?
People with Fibromyalgia Qualify For Disability if: They have at least a 3-month history of widespread pain in all quadrants of the body. The pain must occur on the left and right of the body. It must also occur below and above the waist. The pain must also be “axial skeletal pain.”.
How to help fibromyalgia?
People with fibromyalgia may have many options. They can use physical therapy and medicine. They can try yoga and mindfulness. Major lifestyle changes may improve fibromyalgia symptoms. In some cases, however, FM becomes very severe. In serious cases, people with FM should seek disability benefits.
What does SSA mean by MDI?
A total disability is a condition that is proven by a doctor. This is what the SSA calls a “medically determinable impairment” (MDI). When assessing an MDI, the SSA will closely evaluate the medical source. Only a medical doctor is acceptable.
What does the SSA look for in a doctor?
The SSA will look beyond the diagnosis of fibromyalgia. The medical source must provide a substantial amount of proof. This evidence includes a medical history review and a physical exam. From there, the SSA will review and assess the doctor’s notes to see if they show a fibromyalgia diagnosis.
How many tender points are there in a fibromyalgia exam?
One area is in the lower back. They have at least 11 “positive tender points” upon physical exam. These points must be in all four quadrants. If they are not, you may not receive Fibromyalgia Disability Benefits.
What is FM disability?
Such conditions may even greatly affect the lives of family and friends. One such disabling condition is fibromyalgia (FM). Fibromyalgia is a disorder that causes musculoskeletal pain all over the body which can include symptoms of fatigue, sleep, ...
What is the SSA?
The SSA is a federal agency that provides benefits for many people. One type of benefit that a person with FM can apply for is for social security disability. These monthly payments help many people who are disabled and unable to work. As of now, the SSA provides two programs for social security disability.
What are the perks of obtaining long term disability benefits?
When someone’s long term disability claim is approved, they will either receive monthly insurance payments, or one lump-sum payment from their insurance company.
How do I file a long term disability claim?
Filing a long term disability claim is not always easy, which is why you need an experienced nationwide long term disability attorney on your side. The first step in filing your claim is speaking with your insurer or your employer to learn more about your policy.
Contact our experienced nationwide firm
If you or someone you know is looking to receive long term disability benefits and needs the help of an experienced attorney, speak with our nationwide LTD attorneys today. Our firm has significant experience helping people just like you obtain or defend their long term disability benefits. Contact Walker & Hern for a free consultation.
What is the pain of fibromyalgia?
Fibromyalgia is a complex disorder that causes persisting, body-wide pain, often accompanied by numbness and tingling in the extremities, and muscle and joint stiffness. Pain fluctuates in intensity and may not always be present. Symptoms include fatigue, sleep problems, waking unrefreshed, headaches, ...
Why is it important to have a longitudinal record of fibromyalgia?
Longitudinal records. This becomes extremely important because the symptoms of fibromyalgia can wax and wane.
Is fibromyalgia a presumptive condition?
For Gulf War veterans, fibromyalgia is a presumptive condition. Additionally, VA now accepts “pain alone” as a basis of disability. These rules may improve a veteran’s chance of obtaining disability benefits for fibromyalgia.
Is it hard to diagnose fibromyalgia?
But it can be very hard to prove that your fibromyalgia is disabling. The symptoms of FM are notoriously difficult to diagnose. Symptoms resemble those of other diseases, and proper diagnostic testing for fibromyalgia is not always done.
Can a disability claim be denied based on fibromyalgia?
Insurers often deny disability claims based on fibromyalgia and other chronic pain diagnoses. Most insurers will look for weakness in a claim that gives them a way to avoid paying benefits. Unfortunately, the subjective nature of this disease creates further incentives to deny.
Can you get disability if you have fibromyalgia?
If you live with fibromyalgia, the multitude of symptoms caused by this condition may disrupt your life so much you can no longer work. If so, it’s important to know: You may qualify for Social Security disability benefits for fibromyalgia. You may also be able to claim long-term disability benefits if you have disability insurance coverage ...
Do you have to show fibromyalgia to the VA?
If you served in the Gulf War and have been diagnosed with fibromyalgia, you do not need to show a nexus between fibromyalgia and military service. The VA presumes that health conditions are related to Gulf War service if the veteran has experienced them for six or more months. This includes fibromyalgia.