"Ambulate effectively" is a term used by the SSA to determine if you're able to walk enough to work and earn a gainful living. It is used throughout the Blue Book for various listings, including a stroke, amputation, traumatic brain injury, spinal cord injury, or more.
By proving that you're unable to ambulate effectively, you'll be medically eligible for Social Security disability benefits.
So What Counts As Not Ambulating Effectively?
There are three ways to be able to prove that you are unable to walk to the SSA:
- You cannot stand from a seated position without assistance from a walker or another person
- You are unable to balance while standing without the use of two crutches, a walker, or another person
- You cannot walk more than a couple of steps without use of a walker or a wheelchair
A sure-fire way to know that you're unable to meet the definition of "ambulating effectively" is by proving that you need to use a wheelchair on a daily basis. Anyone requiring a wheelchair is medically eligible for disability benefits.
How Can I Qualify Without Meeting a Blue Book Listing?
If you do not meet the Blue Book listing for inability to ambulate, you may still qualify for Social Security disability benefits. You will need to review the Blue Book and potentially fill out an RFC evaluation for your claim to be approved.
A Social Security disability attorney or advocate can review your claim and help determine if you are medically eligible for Social Security benefits. Fill out our Free Evaluation to speak with an attorney in your area today.
