At Ortega Disability Group, we specialize in helping clients in California navigate the complex process of obtaining Social Security Disability (SSD) benefits. Often, claimants aren’t sure whether they will be eligible based on their condition. In the case of carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS), you may be asking, “Does carpal tunnel qualify for disability?” You may also be surprised to find out that the answer is yes, in severe cases it does.
Understanding how to obtain disability for carpal tunnel is crucial for those affected by this condition. Continue reading to learn more about how you can file a successful claim with help from our attorneys.
Assessing Carpal Tunnel as A Disability for Social Security Benefits
Carpal tunnel syndrome can significantly impact your ability to work, raising the question: “Is carpal tunnel a disability for Social Security Disability?” While not explicitly listed in the Social Security Administration’s (SSA) Blue Book, carpal tunnel can be considered a disabling condition under certain circumstances.
Key Tests and Examinations for Carpal Tunnel Disability
Several diagnostic tests play a role in determining eligibility for disability benefits with carpal tunnel. These include:
- Tinel’s Sign Test: This test is used for assessing nerve damage, a key factor in determining whether carpal tunnel will qualify you for disability.
- Phalen’s Maneuver: This test is used to determine how severely carpal tunnel impacts your hand function.
- Two-Point Discrimination Test: This test contributes to understanding the severity of your carpal tunnel. It’s used to identify the smallest distance at which a patient can differentiate between one or two points touching their skin.
- Manual Carpal Compression Test: This test aids in identifying nerve pain caused by the condition.
- X-Rays: These help in diagnosing the extent of the condition, which can impact the outcome of carpal tunnel disability benefit claims.
- Electromyogram and Nerve Conduction Tests: These tests are used to evaluate if nerve signals are being sent successfully through the wrists to the hand muscles.
- Residual Functional Capacity (RFC) Assessment: An RFC assessment is conducted by the SSA to determine how significantly any claimant’s medical condition restricts their ability to perform physical and mental tasks related to work. Any of the tests listed above, along with others, may be conducted during an RFC assessment for carpal tunnel.
If you’re suffering from carpal tunnel syndrome and the symptoms have left you unable to work, you may qualify for Social Security Disability benefits. Reach out to our disability lawyers in Oakland, CA to get started on filing your claim.
Strategies for Successful Carpal Tunnel Disability Claims
When applying for SSD benefits, you must demonstrate how your medical condition impacts your ability to maintain gainful employment.
Carpal tunnel syndrome is not listed in the SSA’s Blue Book of qualifying conditions. Therefore, it must match the severity of a listed impairment in order to qualify a claimant for benefits. This could involve relating carpal tunnel syndrome’s symptoms to other conditions like peripheral neuropathy or inflammatory arthritis.
Finally, the same guidelines that need to be met for all disability claims to be approved must also apply. These include:
- The claimant’s medical condition must have lasted or be expected to last at least 12 months (or result in death).
- The claimant’s condition must prevent them from performing Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA).
- The claimant’s condition must be medically diagnosable.
- The claimant’s condition must meet or equal a qualifying impairment listing in the Blue Book.
- The claimant’s condition must be supported by substantial medical evidence.
Seek Disability Benefits for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome | Contact Ortega Disability Group
If carpal tunnel syndrome is impacting your ability to work, Ortega Disability Group is here to help you file for SSD benefits. Our Social Security Disability attorneys understand the challenges that come with proving disability and filing a claim. We’re committed to helping clients secure the benefits they need, no matter how complex their case seems.
If you’re asking, “Can I get disability for carpal tunnel?” contact us today to schedule a free consultation. Our experience and dedicated approach makes our law firm a trusted partner in the journey towards obtaining the financial assistance you need.
