When is Scoliosis Considered a Disability?

When is Scoliosis Considered a Disability?

Scoliosis may result in severe symptoms like all-over pain and breathing and movement problems. Scoliosis can satisfy the conditions to qualify as a handicap with numerous agencies and organisations when these symptoms make it impossible for a person to work.

The disorder known as scoliosis makes the spine curve unnaturally. While some persons with scoliosis only experience minor symptoms and are still able to work, others experience significant symptoms like discomfort, the inability to walk without assistance, and breathing problems. When scoliosis symptoms are this severe, a person may be eligible for programmes and benefits for disabled people.

What is a disability?

Depending on the organisation or agency you are requesting services from, a disability may be defined differently. Each state, programme, and agency has its own rules and specifications. The SSA's definition of a legal disability is frequently used when individuals think of such terms.

According to the SSA, a disability is a medical condition that prevents you from working and is anticipated to continue for at least 12 months or until your death. A condition will typically be eligible for other services and benefits if it satisfies the SSA requirements, but this is not a given.

Is scoliosis a disability?

Not all people with scoliosis are regarded as disabled. Some individuals have minor scoliosis without any incapacitating symptoms. Others with scoliosis experience symptoms that are severe enough to qualify as a handicap.

The United States Social Security Administration (SSA) Disability program's Blue Book, which can now be accessible online and lists all the ailments and diagnoses that qualify for Social Security disability, does not specifically identify scoliosis. That doesn't mean an impairment is never present, though. Scoliosis sufferers may be eligible for SSA disability benefits under the Blue Book listings for more extensive conditions, such as:

• 1.00 Musculoskeletal Disorders
• 1.04 Disorders of the Spine
• The medical-vocational allowance

You must receive a doctor's certification that your scoliosis is severe and that it stops you from working to be eligible for one of these categories. The SSA will require evidence that your scoliosis results in symptoms and consequences, such as:

• Compression of the nerve root results in a restricted range of motion, a loss of sensory reflexes, and widespread nerve discomfort. Severe spinal membrane swelling limits movement and causes excruciating pain. Narrowing of the spinal canal causes pain and weakness.

Where to locate scoliosis patients' access to disability resources

Numerous organisations can assist you in figuring out whether you are eligible for disability payments if you have scoliosis. Medicare, Medicaid, and other federal, state, and municipal organisations may consider you for their benefits.

These groups can assist you in learning about your rights and requesting benefits:

• U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC): You are protected from discrimination at employment based on a variety of characteristics, including having a disability, by federal laws that are enforced by this agency.
• United States Social Security Administration (SSA): If you meet the requirements for federal disability benefits, this organisation will decide.
• USA.gov: You can locate and identify the government resources that are accessible to you using this website.
• HealthCare.gov: You can apply for healthcare coverage and get information about it on this page.
• Medicaid.gov: A federal programme run by each state that offers resources and health insurance to people with disabilities
• Medicare.gov: The Medicare programmes for younger persons with qualifying disabilities and the application process are all available on the federal government's official website.
• The Center for Medicare Advocacy: This nonprofit advocacy organisation seeks to educate seniors and people with disabilities about their rights and, if qualified, help them obtain Medicare coverage.
• U.S. Department of Health and Human Services: This federal organisation has created a list of organisations whose goal is to assist people in obtaining the benefits they require.

Takeaway

The disorder known as scoliosis makes the spine curve unnaturally. This ailment can occasionally be manageable and minor. However, it can occasionally result in excruciating discomfort and make breathing and walking difficult. The SSA and other organisations may classify your scoliosis as a handicap if these symptoms keep you from working.

You might be able to find out if your scoliosis symptoms are likely to qualify for disability benefits and programmes with the advice of your doctor and other medical professionals.

FAQs

Is scoliosis considered a disability?

Scoliosis isn't always considered a disability

Can I live a normal life with severe scoliosis?

Most people with scoliosis can have normal, active lives with treatment.

Can severe scoliosis be fixed?

It's not possible to completely fix scoliosis.

Is scoliosis a serious condition?

It is not usually a sign of anything serious.

Is it OK to have scoliosis?

Although scoliosis can be improved with therapy, it is typically not a symptom of anything serious, and if it is slight, treatment is not always necessary.