Houston Social Security
Disability Attorney

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Photo of David Dopkin

Obtaining SSDI benefits for neurological disorders

On Behalf of | Oct 18, 2018 | Social Security Disability

Many people in Houston suffer from disorders of their neurological systems. The Social Security Disability insurance program provides benefits for many of these disorders. Covered conditions include amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, early-onset Alzheimer’s disease to combinations of physical and mental dysfunction. The evidentiary requirements of the Social Security Administration and the complexity of the human neurological system often make obtaining SSDI benefits for these disorders a daunting task.

The SSA has adopted regulations that apply to every form of neurological disorder for which benefits may be paid. The necessary medical evidence includes the claimant’s medical history, examination findings regarding the disorder in question, relevant laboratory findings and the results of medical imaging, such as CT scans, MRI scans and electroencephalography. Some diseases, such as Parkinsonian syndrome and myasthenia gravis, may be eligible for benefits if the patient has adhered to a prescribed treatment regimen and if the symptoms persist.

The neurological disease in question must be found to show certain symptoms. The first is disorganization of motor function. This symptom refers to extreme limitation on a person’s ability to stand up from a seated position, maintaining balance while standing or walking or using hands, arms and fingers. The phrase “extreme limitation” means essentially that the person cannot perform the required function without the assistance of another person. Communication dysfunction refers to a disorder affecting the parts of the brain responsible for speech and language.

The SSA evaluates the symptoms and effects of the neurological disorder by using a complex set of minimum standards that cannot be summarized in a blog post. Anyone who feels that they or a loved one suffers from a neurological disorder that may qualify for SSDI benefits may wish to consult a lawyer who is experienced in handling SSDI claims. An experienced attorney can assist in evaluating the medical evidence, helping compile the necessary medical and employment information and, if necessary, conduct an appeal from a claim denial.