Chiari Malformations and Social Security Disability

Chiari malformations involve structural defects of the cerebellum. This part of the brain controls balance.

When part of the cerebellum is located below the foramen magnum it is called a Chiari malformation.

This may cause symptoms such as neck pain, balance problems, muscle weakness, numbness, abnormal feelings in the arms or legs, dizziness, vision problems, hearing loss, nausea, vomiting, depression, or headaches. Hand coordination and fine motor skills may also be affected.

CT scans and MRIs are often used to diagnose Chiari malformations.

Treatment for people who are symptomatic usually involves surgery. The purpose is to relieve the pressure on the cerebellum or the spinal column.

When the symptoms become severe they may interfere with work and activities of daily living.

This may require you to file for Social Security Disability.

To win your case you will have to prove the severity of your symptoms.

This will include having doctors’ records documenting the diagnosis, treatment and symptoms.

You will need to have your medical providers explain and record your problems and their frequency.

You should also have family members and friends keep a log of your problems and limitations and what they do to help you out.

Getting Social Security Disability benefits is never easy so your doctors and family must be made aware of your symptoms and the problems that result from your condition.

Need help? Feel free to contact Illinois Social Security Disability Lawyer Dirk May at 309-827-4371.

No time limit on Social Security disability benefits

Your Social Security disability benefits will continue as long as your medical condition has not improved and you remain unable to work.

Source: No time limit on Social Security disability benefits

 

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This explains the your disability benefits continue until Social Security determines otherwise. There seems to be more cases of Social Security ruling that people’s disability have ceased. You must appeal these denials or your benefits will stop.

Neuropathy and Social Security Disability

Neuropathy is a condition that causes nerve damage.

In Social Security Disability cases what matters is its affect on the hands and feet.

Typically it will cause burning, tingling and numbness in the extremities.

Most cases of neuropathy are found in people with diabetes.

Some new studies suggest that obstructive sleep apnea may worsen diabetic neuropathy.

Diagnostic tools for finding neuropathy include an EMG/NCV test. Physical exams may also indicate that you have neuropathy.

The limitations that result from neuropathy are what matter in Social Security Disability cases.

The major areas of functioning that Social Security examines are lifting, standing, walking, sitting, reaching, handling and fingering.

If your neuropathy is severe it will most likely limit you to standing less than 1 hour, walking to several blocks and it may keep your lifting down because of problems caused with your legs.

Numbness and tingling in the hands will limit your ability to handle, grip and finger items. Almost all jobs require frequent use of the hands.

If you unable to stand and walk much and have problems using your hands, then you should be found disabled.

Questions about whether you can win your disability case? Feel free to contact Illinois Social Security Disability Attorney Dirk May at 309-827-4371.

CBC My Region – Janzen family killings highlight migraine sufferers’ plight, says expert

Source: CBC My Region – Janzen family killings highlight migraine sufferers’ plight, says expert

 

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I believe migraines must be one of the most difficult conditions with chronic pain. You just cannot function when you are hit with them. If you can document the migraines consistently, then you should be able to win a Social Security Disability case.

 

Doctors and Social Security Disability

You do not necessarily need your doctor to write a letter for you in order to win your Social Security Disability case.

Many doctors will not write a letter of support because they think they are too busy or they do not understand the process, or they do not want to get involved.

The best way the doctor can help is through documenting your symptoms, problems, and daily struggles with your illness, injury or condition.

Ask the doctor to make sure he dictates your complaints when you make your doctor visits.

“Doc, I get these terrible migraines once a week. It makes me sick to my stomach. I take my medicine, and have to lay down in the dark for 4 to 5 hours then I cannot get back to normal till the next day. I take my medications like you prescribe and it still hits me once a week.”

Whatever your condition, just make sure your doctor or nurse practitioner dictates or somehow documents your problems and limitations.

This will strengthen your case greatly.

Questions about your Social Security Disability case? Feel free to contact Illinois Social Security Disability Attorney Dirk May at 309-827-4371.

No cost or charge to talk or take your case, unless we help you win.