Dystonia is a neurological movement disorder. Those who suffer from this disorder experience uncontrollable muscle contractions throughout the entire body or in one specific muscle or muscle group. Dystonia generally affects more women than men, and can cause mild to severe symptoms, including:
- Cramping of the feet or legs
- Uncontrollable blinking
- Difficulty speaking
- Involuntary movements
Applying for Social Security Disability When Suffering from Dystonia
Some individuals that have dystonia may easily be able to continue working; therefore, it is not specifically listed in the Social Security Disability blue book. However, others who have dystonia experience severe symptoms that make it impossible to maintain employment. To qualify for Social Security Disability, applicants must prove that their symptoms keep them from working.
Qualifying for Social Security Disability Benefits with Dystonia
If you suffer from many of the following severe symptoms because of your dystonia, you may be able to receive approval:
- Restricted mobility that makes it difficult or impossible to push, carry, pull, or lift items
- Significant difficulty running, walking, or standing for extended periods of time
- Trouble communicating affectively due to trouble controlling the tongue and jaw muscles
- Chronic pain that makes it impossible for you to focus on tasks or attend work regularly
- The condition has led to severe depression or anxiety
Medical Evidence to Receive Social Security Disability Benefits for Dystonia
Applicants must be able to demonstrate using concrete evidence that his or her condition or treatments, make it impossible to maintain any type of job. Necessary medical evidence may include:
- Summary of hospitalizations or clinic visits
- Any relevant lab, MRI, CT Scan, or X-Ray results
- Notes from physicians detailing the severity of your symptoms
- History of your treatments and your body’s response to those treatments
- Any other relevant medical documentation regarding your symptoms
The Importance of Hiring a Social Security Disability Attorney
Many people with dystonia are turned down for SSD assistance because they did not have a Social Security Disability Attorney review their application before submitting. Your attorney can help you gather all of the many medical documents and other necessary information to help you greatly increase your chances of receiving a swift approval.
