Filing for Social Security disability benefits sue to Fibromyalgia is challenging, even though it is one of the most common types of chronic pain disorders with more than 5 million people in the US suffering from this disease. But it is also one of the most difficult to diagnose; according to the National Fibromyalgia Association it can take up to 3 years. Fibromyalgia is characterized by widespread musculoskeletal pain accompanied by fatigue, sleep, memory and mood issues which often is debilitating, preventing many from being able to function at work and at home.
According to National Pain Report’s most recent fibromyalgia survey, 58% of respondents said they can’t work due to health reasons. Only 21% said they are employed full time. These numbers reflect how debilitating fibromyalgia can be. The lack of clear physical symptoms makes it challenging for those who file for Social Security disability benefits.
Fibromyalgia & Social Security Disability
Social Security requires a patient to submit medical confirmation of fibromyalgia. The treating physician must provide adequate documentation including medical history, examinations and test results. To prove that you have fibromyalgia, the following three requirements must be met:
- Your treating doctor must have diagnosed fibromyalgia
- He/she must also have provided the evidence described by the 1990 American College of Rheumatology criteria or the 2010 Preliminary Diagnostic Criteria
- The diagnosis must not be inconsistent with the other evidence in your case record.
The best strategy for assembling evidence for a fibromyalgia case should consist of long-term treatment notes from a rheumatologist or pain management specialist, a statement that the patient’s condition meets the criteria set forth by the American College of Rheumatology, and documented evidence from their medical records that the patient has been fully compliant with all treatment and medical recommendations.
Confused? Don’t Be!
Remember that once a disability filing has been denied, the claimant has only 60 days to file an appeal. According to the Social Security Disability Resource Center “Disability claimants who have representation are as much as 50% more likely than those who do not have representation to win disability benefits at an ALJ (appeal) disability hearing”. Our firm has been representing disability clients for over 20 years and we have the specialized expertise necessary to prevail in these complex cases. Call our offices at 305-653-5555 for a FREE consultation.