what benefits can i claim with spinal stenosis

If you have spinal stenosis and it makes it impossible for you to work, you may be considered disabled by the SSA

. If you win your claim, you are entitled to disability benefits. The benefits that you are most likely to receive because of your spinal stenosis is Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI).

Full Answer

How to cure spinal stenosis naturally?

Ways to Reverse Spinal Stenosis Naturally

1. Choosing the Mattress Suitable for Spinal Stenosis Sufferers. Usually, spinal stenosis sufferers experience discomfort while sleeping. ...
2. Physical Exercise. It may often feel you’re in too much pain to move your body, let alone exercising. ...
3. Chiropractors and Physical Therapists. ...
4. Other Alternative Approaches. ...
5. Lifestyle Modifications. ...

What is the best treatment for severe stenosis?

Treatment for Cervical Stenosis with Myelopathy

• Pain medication. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as aspirin or ibuprofen, may help relieve pain or discomfort.
• Activity modification. Sometimes certain activities or holding the neck in certain positions can exacerbate symptoms. ...
• Physical therapy. ...

Can stenosis of the spine be cured?

Spinal stenosis can often be treated by simple measures such as medicines for pain relief, keeping as active as you can and losing weight if you are overweight. Sometimes surgery is needed if simple measures are not successful. Very occasionally, some patient's with spinal stenosis may develop Cauda

What are my options for spinal canal stenosis treatment?

Treatments we commonly recommend to patients include:

• Steroid Injections. Epidural steroid injections are commonly used to provide long-term pain relief. ...
• DRX9000. ...
• Medication. ...
• Physical Therapy. ...
• Correcting Posture. ...
• Permanent Lifestyle Changes. ...
• Facet Blocks. ...
• Radiofrequency Ablation. ...

Is it hard to get disability for spinal stenosis?

With your doctor's support and good medical records, getting disability for spinal stenosis is not out of reach, especially if you have difficulty walking. Spinal stenosis is a condition that causes a narrowing of the spinal canal and compression of the spinal cord and nerves.

How much disability do you get for spinal stenosis?

The Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) program was created to assist those who have become disabled due to a condition such as lumbar spinal stenosis. You may be eligible to receive $3,345 each month.

Does spinal stenosis qualify for long term disability?

If you have severe spinal stenosis and you cannot work, you may be eligible for long-term disability (LTD) benefits.

Can I claim PIP for stenosis?

You can receive disability benefits for foraminal stenosis if you have supporting medical documentation.

Does spinal stenosis make you tired?

The primary symptom of stenosis at any site is pain and fatigue resulting from pressure on the spinal cord or nerves.

What back problems qualify for disability?

What Back Conditions Qualify for Disability? The spine disorders that qualify for disability include herniated discs, nerve root compression, degenerative disc disease. To get disability with back pack, you must meet one of the back conditions in the SSA's list of impairments that qualify for disability.

What jobs can I do with spinal stenosis?

Ideal Jobs for People Suffering from Back PainContent writer. Many companies need good writers who can develop content for their blogs, websites, social media accounts and newsletters. ... Office job. ... Customer service representative. ... Tech worker. ... Accountant. ... Sales representative. ... Self-employment. ... Home school teacher.More items...•

How does spinal stenosis affect walking?

If you have lumbar spinal stenosis, you may have trouble walking distances or find that you need to lean forward to relieve pressure on your lower back. You may also have pain or numbness in your legs. In more severe cases, you may have difficulty controlling your bowel and bladder.

Is lumbar spinal stenosis serious?

Lumbar spinal stenosis can cause mild to serious symptoms, affecting daily life. While nonsurgical treatments are tried first, the patient may decide to have surgery if the symptoms are severe and cause significant dysfunction.

Can I claim disability allowance for spinal stenosis UK?

As with all conditions listed in the Blue Book, only those lumbar stenosis cases that have lasted, or are expected to continue, for at least one year will be considered for disability benefits.

What is spinal stenosis NHS?

Spinal stenosis is a condition where the space around the spinal cord (the spinal column) narrows, compressing a section of nerve tissue. The main symptoms of spinal stenosis are pain, numbness, weakness and a tingling sensation in one or both legs. This can make walking difficult and painful.

Is cervical stenosis a permanent disability?

Spinal stenosis in some cases can be a permanent disability if it effects your ability to perform basic day to day functions. If you have spinal stenosis and you are unable to perform the normal functions of your job that makes it impossible for you to work, then you may be able to qualify for benefits.

Can you drive with spinal stenosis?

Back Pain and Driving These movements can all negatively impact a person with lumbar issues. One back issue that can be negatively impacted with driving position is spinal stenosis. This is a condition where the spinal canal becomes narrowed and leads to crowding and compression of the spinal nerves.

What is lumbar spinal stenosis?

What Exactly Is Lumbar Spinal Stenosis? Lumbar spinal stenosis is a condition that causes the spinal canal to narrow, which compresses the spinal cord and nerves. The narrowing occurs in the lower part of the back (the lumbar region). The most common cause of lumbar spinal stenosis is osteoarthritis or degenerative disc disease, ...

Where is spinal stenosis located?

Spinal stenosis is located in the Social Security disability blue book under disorders of the spine. The Blue Book is the informal name to the Disability Evaluation Under Social Security which is the list of disability conditions/impairments that could qualify for Social Security disability benefits. The SSA defines a disability as the inability ...

How old do you have to be to have lumbar stenosis?

Lumbar spinal stenosis is generally diagnosed in people over the age of 50, and the symptoms of the condition vary from person to person. While some people have intermittent pain or numbness when walking, others are so severely impacted that they require surgery. If you have lumbar spinal stenosis and it is preventing you from earning ...

What are non surgical options?

Physical therapy, lumbar traction, chiropractic adjustments, anti-inflammatory medications, and steroid injections are some of the nonsurgical options. Surgeries such as a laminectomy or a spinal fusion may also be considered.

How much do you need to earn to qualify for SSDI?

In 2020, a worker must earn $1,410 to earn one work credit, every case is different, but you usually need up to 20 work credits in order to qualify for SSDI. If your spinal stenosis matches the Blue Book listing and you have enough work credits, then you may be able to claim SSDI benefits with spinal stenosis.

What imaging is needed to confirm lumbar spinal stenosis?

Your physician should note your ability to move, such as getting on and off the table, as well as your prognosis. X-rays, MRIs, CT scans, or other imaging results that may help to confirm your diagnosis of lumbar spinal stenosis.

How long does a disability last?

The SSA defines a disability as the inability to engage in any substantial gainful activity (SGA) by reason of any medically determinable physical or mental impairment (s) which can be expected to result in death or which has lasted or can be expected to last for a continuous period of not less than 1 year.

How many hours a day can you work with spinal stenosis?

However, the main focus in a claim is usually the symptoms you experience from spinal stenosis and how those symptoms affect your ability to engage in physical and mental work-related activities eight (8) hours per day, five (5) days per week.

What type of doctor treats spinal stenosis?

Doctors who specialize in treating spinal stenosis include: Orthopedists/Orthopedic surgeons – They focus on the musculoskeletal system (bones, muscles, nerves, joints, tendons, ligaments, and skin). Neurosurgeons (spine surgeons) – They focus on surgical and nonsurgical treatments for the nervous system. Rheumatologists – They specialize on ...

How long does a disability last?

For the SSA to consider you disabled, you must have a medically determinable physical or mental impairment (or a combination of impairments) that is severe and has lasted or is expected last one (1) year or end in death. If your medical condition is not that severe, you will not be found to meet the requirements for Social Security disability ...

What are the two types of spinal stenosis?

There are two types of spinal stenosis: cervical stenosis, which occurs near the neck , and lumbar stenosis, which is in the lower back. Most cases of spinal stenosis are a product of aging or age-related conditions such as overgrowth of bone and thickened ligaments. However, some cases are caused by tumors and spinal injuries.

What is the abnormal narrowing of the spinal cord called?

Within the human spine, there is a channel or space occupied by the spinal nerves and spinal cord. The abnormal narrowing of this channel is called stenosis. When spinal stenosis occurs, it can put pressure on the nerves and consequently cause pain, numbness, tingling, and muscle weakness, which may all worsen over time.

Can you get disability for spinal stenosis?

Many people suffer from spinal stenosis, but unfortunately, not every one of them has been approved for disability benefits. In fact, about two-thirds of all initial disability claims get rejected.

How to tell if you have spinal stenosis?

People with spinal stenosis will experience symptoms in certain areas according to where the narrowing of the spinal canal is located. If a person has cervical stenosis, they’ll likely begin to experience symptoms, such as numbness or tingling, in a hand, arm, foot, or leg. Weakness in a leg, hand, arm, or foot is also possible. Some people might also begin to notice that they have neck pain or problems with walking and balancing. Finally, in severe cases, some people will begin to experience urinary incontinence and other types of bowel and bladder dysfunction.

Is spinal stenosis treatable?

Spinal stenosis is treatable in many cases, but it can take some time to figure out the best plan of action for each individual. Because not everyone with spinal stenosis even experiences symptoms right away, some doctors might choose to just monitor the situation rather than jumping to a course of treatment. This might also be the case for people who are only experiencing mild symptoms.

Can you get disability for spinal stenosis?

Spinal stenosis in the lumbar region is recognized by the Social Security Administration as a medical condition that is eligible for disability benefits . In order to qualify, though, applicants must meet a variety of criteria. Beyond having the stenosis in the lumbar region, the applicant must also have a test showing evidence of it. For instance, an MRI, CT scan, or myelography must also accompany the claim. Additionally, pain in the back, buttocks, or thighs with weakness is another necessary criteria. The applicant must also experience pain not radiating from the nerve. And finally, they must also experience an inability to walk properly, resulting in a need to use a walker or two crutches.

How to treat spinal stenosis?

Usually medications such as ibuprofen and acetaminophen are prescribed to relieve and manage pain. Injections of cortisone may help as well as physical therapy and exercises to build strength and maintain flexibility. Contact a Social Security disability attorney ...

How does spinal stenosis affect the body?

Spinal stenosis occurs when the spaces between the vertebrae narrow, putting pressure on the vertebrae and nerves that run from the spine to the arms and legs. Any damage to the nerves, bones, or tissues surrounding the spinal cord can affect a person’s balance, walking, and sensation.

What is the spine made of?

The spine is made up of a column of bones called vertebrae that provide support for the upper body. Nerves run through the openings in the vertebrae, conducting signals from the brain to the rest of the body. Spinal stenosis occurs when the spaces between the vertebrae narrow, putting pressure on the vertebrae and nerves ...

How to contact a disability attorney for spinal stenosis?

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 Spinal Stenosis. If you have been denied disability don’t give up!

What causes spinal stenosis?

The main cause of spinal stenosis is general wear and tear on bones and tissue as a person ages. Tissue begins to thicken and bones become larger, compressing nerves. Though the majority of people affected are over the age of 50, age is not the only causal factor in spinal stenosis.

Where does spinal stenosis occur?

Spinal stenosis can occur anywhere along the spine and is also referred to as pseudo-claudication, central spinal stenosis, or foraminal spinal stenosis. There are two types of spinal stenosis; cervical stenosis occurs in the neck while lumbar stenosis, the most common form, occurs in the lower back. Spinal stenosis is a gradual process and ...

What is the purpose of spinal surgery?

A surgeon will adjust, trim or take out the part of the spinal column that is causing pressure on the nerves and damaging nearby healthy tissue. Though surgery may increase mobility and relieve pain, it also carries the risk of infection and blood clots. Surgery may also tear a membrane that covers the spinal cord.

What is the condition that narrows the spinal canal?

Spinal stenosis is a condition that narrows the spinal canal, causing pinching or compression of the spinal cord and nerves. The result is intense pain, numbness and weakness in the back, neck or limbs.

Can a person over 50 have spinal stenosis?

Spinal stenosis is common in people over 50 and can sometimes be attributed to aging. However, it may occur in younger people who are born with a narrowing of the spine or who suffered a spine injury. Regardless of age, spinal stenosis can be debilitating and, in some case, crippling.

Can you still get disability if you have spinal stenosis?

If you do not meet the above criteria, you may still qualify for Spinal Stenosis Disability benefits. If you can show that your condition is so severe that it prohibits you from working any job, you may still be awarded benefits.

What are the criteria for spinal stenosis?

To meet the criteria of the listing for spinal stenosis in the Blue Book, you must meet these criteria: Have a positive CT scan or MRI that confirms lumbar spinal stenosis. Have pain in your lower back, buttocks, and thighs with weakness in the lower extremities. Have a continual non-radicular pain AND.

How far can you walk with spinal stenosis?

The RFC may indicate that you cannot stand more than an hour without having to take a break. You may not be able to walk more than 500 feet unassisted. Your condition may keep you from bending, reaching, or lifting. The RFC should present a clear picture of what you can and cannot do with spinal stenosis.

What is the most common type of spinal stenosis?

There are several kinds of spinal stenosis, with the most common being cervical stenosis, which occurs in the neck and lumbar stenosis which occurs in the lower back. Lumbar stenosis is the most common type of spinal stenosis. For example, if you have spinal stenosis in your lower back, the pain may make it really difficult to perform ...

Can lumbar stenosis be aggravated by standing?

Symptoms of those who have lumbar stenosis may suffer from pain and weakness in the legs, loss of deep tendon reflexes, and the pain may by aggravated by walking or standing. The treatment plan depends on the area that is affected by the condition. However, either kind of spinal stenosis does have a surgical option.

Is spinal stenosis considered a disability?

Spinal stenosis is considered a disability by the SSA and in order to qualify you need to meet the medical requirements outlined by the SSA in their list of disabling conditions which is called the Blue Book.

Can you get disability if you have spinal stenosis?

If you have spinal stenosis and you are unable to perform the normal functions of your job that makes it impossible for you to work, then you may be able to qualify for Social Security disability . Spinal stenosis is when the spaces within your neck begin to narrow and put pressure on nerves that run through the spine.

Can you get financial assistance for spinal stenosis?

Those with severe cases of spinal stenosis may be eligible for financial assistance from the SSA. Spinal stenosis is listed in the musculoskeletal section of the Blue Book, section 1.04, disorders of the spine. To be considered disabled you must experience one of the following:

How long can you work with spinal stenosis?

Your spinal stenosis symptoms must prevent you from working at least 12 months in a row. If you need spinal surgery but expect to start working again in less than a year, you won’t qualify. If you’re already drawing any Social Security benefits, the government automatically denies your claim.

Can you work full time if you have spinal stenosis?

Your spinal stenosis may force you to stop working before normal retirement age because you can’t do certain things. The closer you are to your normal retirement age, the more likely you are to qualify for disability benefits. Basically, the SSA understands it’s harder to go back to school, move for work or change careers after age 50.

Can you get disability if you are 50?

To medically qualify for disability benefits, all the following must apply to you: Because spinal stenosis gets worse over time, you might not yet meet all these requirements. But if you’re aged 50-64, you should still apply for SSD benefits. We’ll explain why in the next section.

Step 1. Do You Have A Gainful Activity?

• To start, the SSA considers your work activity. If you are engaged in Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA), you will not be found disabled. The amount you must earn to be working at SGA changes each year. For 2018 it is $1,180 per month if you are not blind and $1,970 per month if you are blind. If you are working, and your earnings average more than...

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Step 2. Does Your Illness Qualify as “Severe”?

Step 3. Does Your Illness Match A “Listing”?

Step 5. Are You Able to Do Other Work?