It goes without saying that the shoulders are vitally important joints in the human body. A shoulder injury, no matter how minor, often causes a reduced range of motion as well as serious pain. When a person is not able to use his or her shoulders, doing basic everyday tasks becomes a big struggle. Performing job duties with injured or non-functioning shoulders can be nearly impossible. Fortunately, those who are limited by shoulder injuries may be eligible for Social Security Disability benefits to support them through their recovery.
Common shoulder disabilities
Problems with shoulders can stem from many things, but they are often caused by degeneration, injury or illness. Calcific tendonitis is a common shoulder problem that occurs when tendons become inflamed due to calcium build-up. Another common shoulder injury seen in some older adults is known as frozen shoulder. This happens when the connective tissue around the shoulder thickens and tightens. Other shoulder injuries such as dislocations or rotator cuff tears affect thousands of Americans every year.
How to find out if a shoulder injury qualifies
Many workers who suffer from shoulder problems are eligible for SSD benefits. For the Social Security Administration (SSA) to consider a shoulder issue a disability, sufferers must show that their condition is severe enough to prevent them from working full-time for at least twelve months. The most convenient way for injured workers to apply for disability benefits is to visit the Social Security Administration’s website and follow the prompts.
Those who sustain shoulder injuries should always visit a physician and receive the proper medical treatment before they apply for SSD benefits. During the application process, applicants will need to provide evidence and documentation of the medical treatment they have received for their shoulder injury. Those who have suffered an injury or illness that prevents them from earning a living and need help applying for SSD benefits could obtain guidance by speaking with a seasoned legal professional.
