Getting Disability Coverage for Fibromyalgia

A great deal of Disability claims are made each year because of fibromyalgia, a disease whose causes are not well understood and whose symptoms are wide ranging.  My clients with fibromyalgia usually tell me about joint stiffness and muscle soreness, trouble sleeping, and extreme fatigue.  Often there are all sorts of other symptoms as well, and many clients tell me that they feel like their doctors have decided to call whatever they have "fibromyalgia" for no other reason than they do not know what else to call it.  

Disability Coverage Listings

Social Security has "listings" that are essentially descriptions of impairments and diseases that the Disability Determination people can recognize and go down a checklist of symptoms to decide if a person is disabled.  Presently there is no listing for fibromyalgia, which makes it more difficult for Disability claimants to get approved.  To get approved, most fibromyalgia claims will have to go through the appeals process of reconsideration and on then to a hearing with an Administrative Law Judge.

See Your Doctor if you Notice any Symptoms

It important while navigating the Disability process to see your doctor as often as you can afford, and to tell your doctor about all of your problems. Most people who have to leave work and who experience the pain of fibromyalgia also experience depression and anxiety, and many experience other pain like degenerative joint or degenerative disc disease.  It is important to make sure your doctors know about these as they will be instrumental in helping your attorney get your claim approved.

If you have questions about fibromyalgia and your Disability or SSI claim, contact the Law Office of Steve Jacobs today.

• This article is provided for informational purposes only. If you need help with a disability coverage question, click here to consult with Greg Beckwith or a Disability Lawyer in your area.