Loss of feeling or reflexes caused by nerve root compression. Difficulties with mobility due to numbness, pain or weakness. Use of a walker, cane, wheelchair, or other assistive device. Any assistance that you require due to pain, numbness or weakness.

Is a spinal fusion a disability?

If you have suffered from a spinal disorder that has resulted in you undergoing spinal fusion, but you are still unable to work, you may be eligible to qualify for Social Security disability benefits.

What kind of back problems qualify for disability?

To get disability benefits, you must have a “medically determinable” back impairment such as spinal stenosis, nerve root compression, herniated disc (if it’s chronic and not treatable), or arachnoiditis.

Can one bend ruin a spinal fusion?

Apply that same concept to recovery from spinal surgeries. Avoid bending at all after a lumbar fusion if possible, as bending or twisting can interfere with the way the fusion heals and even damage the work that was done.

How hard is it to get disability for back problems?

While back pain can be very debilitating and cause agony to the individual who suffers from it, the SSA makes it a challenge to get benefits for those who suffer from back pain. In order to qualify for SSDI benefits, you have to be diagnosed with a medical condition that lasts for at least a year.

How to apply for disability after back surgery?

Showing Your Functioning Is Limited. Many patients who apply for disability following back surgery will not meet or equal a listing, but still get disability by showing their functioning is so limited by their back problems that there is no work they can do. RFC assessment.

How to get Social Security disability for back problems?

In order to receive Social Security Disability benefits, the condition of your back must match one of Social Security’s disability listings for back problems or you must convince your claims examiner that your back problems limit your functioning so much that there are no jobs you can do.

When to file for Social Security disability after spinal fusion?

Social Security will be looking for evidence that your disabling symptoms will last at least 12 months, if they have not already, but back impairments, especially following surgery or fusion, frequently improve over time and/or with treatment.

How long does it take to get back pay from Social Security disability?

On average, it takes 1-2 months to receive your back pay once your application is approved Back pay is paid in a single lump some payment No federal taxes will be withheld from your back pay One of the drawbacks of the Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) application process is that it can be lengthy.