A herniated disc can make working physically demanding jobs almost impossible. The pain can be so intense that the person is unable to lift heavy objects or perform other physically intensive duties. Even sitting down may do little to relieve the pain in some cases. Whether you can have your lost income covered by disability benefits depends on the evidence you submit. Feel free to ask a Philadelphia disability attorney for help.

How Herniated Discs Impact Work

There are discs between the vertebrae bones that make up our spine. Spinal discs can be thought of as cushions between our vertebrae. A herniated disc occurs when one of these discs in the spine becomes torn. What happens is the disc leaks and stops acting as a cushion between the vertebrae.

Since the spinal cord is so sensitive, the vertebrae can easily agitate the spinal cord without these cushions. As a result, herniated discs cause significant back and neck pain depending on where the damage is located. There are many causes of herniated discs, including:

• Lifting heavy objects
• Consistent strain on the back in sports or physical labor
• Improper twisting of the back
• Accidents that involve impacts or strain to the spine

Not only can people be stuck with chronic pain, but other symptoms may show up as well. Common symptoms of herniated discs also include:

• Weakness in the back or neck muscles
• Numbness in the legs or arms
• Tingling sensations in the legs or arms
• Shoulder pain

Some herniated discs require medications, physical therapy, and spinal injections. In cases where these treatments fail, surgery might be required. Emergency surgery is often performed when the bladder or bowel nerves become affected.

What Evidence Do I Need for My Disability Claim?

Evidence is everything when it comes to your disability claim. When submitting evidence for a herniated disc disability benefits claim, look for the listing called disorders of the spine. This listing can be found in the Social Security Administration (SSA) blue book of disabilities.

According to this listing, you might be able to qualify for disability benefits if you:

• Are experiencing severe and chronic pain
• You have had a sensory or reflex loss
• Movement is impacted in your lower back and legs
• Your nerve roots are compressed

Ask your doctor if you have any medical evidence of nerve root compression. If not, you might be able to qualify for benefits by combining your symptoms together. As long as you can provide evidence to show how these symptoms prevent you from working, you may have a chance.

Try contacting a Philadelphia disability lawyer to see what your options are. A lawyer can help you with the tedious application process.

Disability Attorney in Philadelphia  

Finding out your disability application was denied can be scary when you need financial help now. Reach out to a Philadelphia denied benefits appeal lawyer to figure out why your claim was denied. You can call Edelstein Martin & Nelson by dialing (800) – 300 – 0909 for a consultation today. Our experienced team of Philadelphia disability attorneys can help you collect the evidence you need for your disability claim.