SSD Neurological Disorders

As healthy adults, many of us do not realize that we may one day become disabled. According to the Social Security Administration, studies show that a 20-year-old worker has a 1 in 4 chance of becoming disabled before reaching retirement age.

For those who do become disabled by an injury, a disease, or an immune system disorder, they may be entitled to receive Social Security disability benefits, which are paid to people who are unable to work because they are diagnosed with a medical condition that will last for at least one year, or result in death.

The Social Security Administration has a Listing of Impairments, which describes impairments for each major body system that are considered severe enough to prevent an individual from engaging in any gainful employment.

What is a neurological disorder?

One of these major body systems is neurological disorders. A neurological disorder refers to any disorder of the nervous system. When there are structural, biochemical, or electrical abnormalities in the brain, spinal cord, or other nerves, it can cause a range of symptoms, some of which are debilitating. This may include paralysis, muscle weakness, coordination problems, loss of sensation, and seizures. Though the brain and spinal cord are surrounded by tough membranes and enclosed by the skull and spinal vertebrae, and chemically isolated by the blood-brain barrier, the nerves are still extremely vulnerable if they are compromised.

There are several recognized neurological disorders that have landed on the listing of impairments, including but not limited to:

• Epilepsy
• Brain tumors
• Parkinson’s Disease
• Cerebral Palsy
• Muscular Dystrophy
• Multiple Sclerosis (MS)
• Lou Gehrig’s Disease (ALS)
• Cerebral Trauma (Traumatic Brain Injury)

People suffering from neurological disorders such as Parkinson’s or MS, may find it progressively difficult to participate in many daily activities, let alone meaningful work.

Taking the Next Step

If you were recently diagnosed with a neurological disorder that is on the listing of impairments, you should apply for disability benefits as soon as possible. It can take up to five months to process an application, and it can take even longer if it is not filled out properly or if you fail to include all of the supportive documentation.

Do not delay in applying for benefits. A South Carolina Social Security disability attorney from George Sink Law, P.A. Injury Lawyers can streamline the process and ensure that you don’t make any mistakes that can cause unnecessary delays. We know what documents are needed and how to avoid making common mistakes during the application process.

Our assistance can mean the difference between acceptance and a denial, so take the next step and contact us today.