SSDI Claims For Sufferers Of Fibromyalgia

April 16, 2016
Dayes Law Firm

Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) claims based on fibromyalgia can be some of the most difficult cases for applicants to win as the administration does not have a disability listing for this disorder. However, this does not mean that patients should give up trying to get benefits, especially when an SSDI lawyer can help you.

At the law offices of Dayes Law Firm PC, we understand how Fibromyalgia (FM) can affect your day-to-day life. Our legal professionals are knowledgeable about how to file a SSDI claims and we can help you get the benefits you need to get your life back on track.

For a free review of your claim, call us today at 1-800-503-2000 or fill out our online contact form.

Symptoms of Fibromyalgia

Characterized by widespread pain and fatigue, fibromyalgia can be difficult to diagnose as the symptoms are very similar to many other disorders and diseases. Some symptoms specifically linked to fibromyalgia include:

  • Difficulty sleeping
  • Morning stiffness
  • Headaches and migraines
  • Digestive problems
  • Difficult thinking and remembering events, also known as fibro fog
  • Painful menstrual periods
  • Anxiety
  • Psychological distress

Claiming Disability When Diagnosed With Fibromyalgia

Typically, disability claimants will have a better chance of being approved for SSDI if a claim of fibromyalgia involves another condition, such as arthritis or orthopedic problems. To be considered for social security disability, your condition must have been established by medical evidence as well as objective symptoms and lab tests.

…your condition must have been established by medical evidence…

Fibromyalgia is a catchall diagnosis, which means a doctor may have ruled out other diagnoses to determine that you suffer from fibromyalgia. The Social Security Administration relies on criteria issued by the American College of Rheumatology (ACR) to determine whether an applicant has fibromyalgia. These determinants include:

  • Evidence of widespread chronic pain that has lasted at least three months; and
  • Objective medical tests that have ruled out other conditions

In addition, one of the following must also be present:

  • Positive tender point sites in at least 11 of 18 of tested areas, above and below the waist and on both sides of the body, or
  • Repeated occurrence of at least six fibromyalgia symptoms

Evaluating Your Benefits Claim

Along with meeting the requirements of the American College of Rheumatology, those seeking Social Security Disability for fibromyalgia should get a proper diagnosis from a rheumatologist. Additionally, make sure the administration has all your medical records and ask a physician to complete a residual functional capacity form which will help determine if your condition limits you from performing full-time work.

The Social Security Administration suggests that claimants obtain statements from third-parties, such as friends, relatives and former employees, who can vouch for the credibility of your symptoms and their effects.

A Social Security disability attorney can help you obtain the documentation you need to present the strongest case possible for the benefits you deserve.

Contact our SSDI Fibromyalgia Claims Lawyers

Fibromyalgia affects approximately 5 million adults and the condition is more prevalent among women than men. If you or someone you love has fibromyalgia and is seeking SSDI benefits, let the experienced Social Security disability benefits attorneys at our law firm help you. Our office is located in Phoenix, Arizona, at 2415 East Camelback Road Suite 700.

The Centers for Disease Control & Prevention estimates that the average medical costs for a person with fibromyalgia is $3,600 per year. Let us help you get the benefits you need.

Call us today at 1-800-503-2000 or fill out our Free Case Evaluation form to get started now.