Is Neuropathy a Disability?
Neuropathy is a medical condition that affects the nerves, often leading to pain, numbness, and tingling in the extremities. Neuropathy can be caused by a variety of factors, including diabetes, certain medications, and certain diseases. It can also be caused by traumatic injuries or even genetics.
The Social Security Administration (SSA) considers neuropathy to be a disability. To receive disability benefits for neuropathy, you must meet the SSA’s definition of a disability and have enough work credits. Additionally, you must provide enough medical evidence to prove that your neuropathy meets the SSA’s definition of a disability.
The SSA’s definition of a disability is based on the Blue Book, which is a list of medical conditions that qualify for disability benefits. To qualify for disability benefits for neuropathy, you must meet the criteria for one of the Blue Book listings.
The criteria for the Blue Book listing for neuropathy vary depending on the type of neuropathy you have. For example, if you have diabetic neuropathy, you must have a diagnosis of diabetes and have evidence of nerve damage in two or more extremities. If you have peripheral neuropathy, you must have evidence of nerve damage in two or more extremities and have evidence of nerve damage in two or more organs.
If you do not meet the criteria for a Blue Book listing, you may still be eligible for disability benefits. The SSA will consider your medical evidence and work history to determine if you are disabled.
In addition to meeting the criteria for a Blue Book listing, you must also have enough work credits to qualify for disability benefits. The amount of work credits you need depends on your age and when you became disabled. Generally, you need 40 work credits, 20 of which must have been earned in the 10 years prior to your disability.
If you are considering applying for disability benefits for neuropathy, it is important to understand the criteria for a Blue Book listing and to have enough medical evidence to prove that your neuropathy meets the SSA’s definition of a disability. Additionally, you must have enough work credits to qualify for disability benefits.
If you are considering applying for disability benefits for neuropathy, it is important to speak with an experienced disability attorney who can help you understand the criteria for a Blue Book listing and can help you gather the necessary medical evidence to prove that your neuropathy meets the SSA’s definition of a disability. An experienced disability attorney can also help you understand the work credit requirements and can help you gather the necessary evidence to prove that you have enough work credits to qualify for disability benefits.
