Many residents of the Houston area have experienced a disorder of the nervous system known as peripheral neuropathy. The disorder manifests itself as weakness, numbness and pain, usually in the hands and feet. The pain is often described by patients as burning, stabbing or tingling. Peripheral neuropathy can be the basis for a successful claim for Social Security Disability Insurance benefits if the symptoms interfere with a person’s ability to perform the duties of his or her job.
The first sign of peripheral neuropathy is often the gradual onset of numbness, prickling or tingling in the feet or hands. If the neuropathy is present in sensory nerves, the first symptom may be jabbing or burning pain, extreme sensitivity to touch and lack of coordination. Muscle weakness may be a symptom if the neuropathy affects the motor nerves. Medical evidence of the condition must be provided by qualified medical professions who have treated the patient or who have examined the patient for the purpose of establishing the cause and extent of the neuropathy.
In order to succeed on a claim for SSDI benefits, the claimant must prove that the neuropathy is expected to last for at least 12 months or to result in the death of the patient. The claimant must also prove that the neuropathy prevents the claimant from performing his or her normal job functions and also prevents the claimant from working at any other job. Most applicants rely on testimony from supervisors, co-workers and other eye witnesses.
Anyone suffering from peripheral neuropathy who is considering filing a claim for SSDI benefits may wish to consult a lawyer who is experienced in handling such claims for advice on the procedure and assistance in filing the application and assembling supporting evidence.