Social Security Disability and Radiculopathy: Understanding Eligibility

Radiculopathy is not an actual condition, but rather refers to various symptoms that occur near the spine where the nerve root is. Therefore, as a diagnosis, radiculopathy might not be sufficient to qualify for Social Security disability benefits.

Definition of Disability

• A disability must have lasted, or is expected to last, at least 12 months.

  The Social Security Administration (SSA) defines disability as a 12-month inability to engage in any "substantial gainful activity" due to any "medically determinable physical or mental impairment."

Symptoms

• With radiculopathy, pain doesn't not always occur in the same place,

  Symptoms of radiculopathy may include pain, difficulty controlling muscles and tingling, numbness and weakness in the extremities.

Causes

• Radiculopathy can result from genetics, an accident or disease.

  Radiculopathy can be caused by a disk herniation, bone spur (osteophytes), osteoarthritis, diabetes (causing insufficient blood flow to the nerves), scoliosis or thickening of the surrounding ligaments. Less common causes are tumors and infection.

Medical Listing

• Check the SSA's listing of spinal impairments to see if you qualify for disability.

  The SSA has a listing of medical impairments for disorders of the spine. If your condition matches the symptoms characterized on the list, the SSA will determine you disabled.

Criteria

• Even if you rely on a cane to walk, the SSA might not consider you disabled.

  The SSA requires the claimant have an extreme limitation on the ability to walk without assistance; or, to walk with assistance, if the assistance limits both upper and lower extremities, such as requiring the use of a walker, two crutches or two canes.