Readers of this blog are well aware that certain federal requirements must be met before Social Security disability benefits are awarded to an individual. These requirements are often injury or illness specific, and they can be very detailed. Although it can be easy to get lost in the complex medical terminology used in the government’s listed requirements, fully understanding them is imperative if a disabled individual wants to put forth a compelling claim.
One area where this is crucial is when making a SSD claim for a neurological condition. For many of the listed conditions, an individual must show that he or she suffers from a disorganization of motor function. But what does this mean? Generally speaking, disorganization of motor function is evidenced by difficulty moving two extremities caused by a neurological disorder. Typically, this disorganization will affect an individual’s ability to stand from a seated position, balance while moving, or utilize the movement afforded by his or her arms, finger, wrists, and shoulders.
Of course, the SSA may analyze the extent of the disorganization. “Extreme limitation” is defined as the inability to stand when moving from a seated position, difficulty using upper extremities complete work duties, or trouble keeping one’s balance while walking and/or standing. Proving the extent of one’s disorganization of motor skills will require extensive medical documentation and strong legal argument.
And yet, this is merely one example of the many requirements that must be met for a given medical condition. To learn more about the requirements that may apply to a particular injury or illness, and how best to go about proving such a disability, an individual may want to seek legal assistance.
Source: Social Security Administration, “11.00 Neurological – Adult,” accessed on Jan. 1, 2017
