Shoulder injuries can significantly impact a person’s ability to work, especially if their job requires physical labor or repetitive arm movements. When severe, shoulder injuries can result in chronic pain, limited mobility, and the inability to perform even simple daily tasks. For those facing debilitating shoulder conditions, Social Security Disability (SSD) benefits can provide much-needed financial support. In this article, we’ll explore how shoulder injuries can qualify for SSD benefits, the medical evidence required, and steps to help you through the application process.

The Ultimate Guide to Social Security Disability Benefits for Shoulder Injuries:

How Shoulder Injuries Affect Daily Life and Work

The shoulder is a complex joint that plays a critical role in upper body movement and strength. When injured, it can significantly limit a person’s ability to perform essential activities, such as lifting, reaching, or even carrying out basic tasks like getting dressed. Common shoulder injuries that may lead to long-term disability include:

• Rotator Cuff Tears: A tear in the rotator cuff can cause severe pain, weakness, and limited range of motion, often requiring surgery and lengthy rehabilitation.
• Frozen Shoulder (Adhesive Capsulitis): This condition causes stiffness and pain, making it difficult to move the shoulder and perform basic tasks.
• Shoulder Impingement Syndrome: Compression of shoulder tendons can lead to chronic pain and difficulty with overhead movements.
• Shoulder Dislocation: A dislocated shoulder can result in ongoing instability, weakness, and pain, particularly if it becomes a recurring issue.
• Arthritis in the Shoulder: Degenerative joint disease or rheumatoid arthritis in the shoulder can cause chronic pain, stiffness, and functional limitations.
• Fractures: A fractured shoulder or collarbone can require extensive recovery time and may result in long-term complications.

Severe or chronic shoulder injuries often prevent individuals from engaging in physically demanding work, and in some cases, even sedentary jobs may become unmanageable due to pain or limited mobility.

Can Shoulder Injuries Qualify for Social Security Disability Benefits?

Yes, shoulder injuries can qualify for Social Security Disability benefits if they meet the criteria set by the Social Security Administration (SSA). To be eligible, the injury must significantly limit your ability to perform substantial gainful activity (SGA) for at least 12 months.

While the SSA does not have a specific Blue Book listing for shoulder injuries, they may qualify under other categories, such as:

1. Musculoskeletal Disorders: If your shoulder injury results in reduced functional mobility or loss of use in one or both arms, it may be evaluated under musculoskeletal impairments.
2. Joint Dysfunction: Chronic conditions that cause abnormal joint mobility, such as severe arthritis or recurring dislocations, may qualify under joint dysfunction criteria.
3. Residual Functional Capacity (RFC) Assessment: If your injury doesn’t meet the Blue Book criteria, the SSA will conduct an RFC assessment to evaluate your physical limitations. This assessment considers your ability to perform tasks such as lifting, reaching, or carrying objects.

For example, if your job requires frequent overhead lifting or repetitive arm movements and you can no longer perform these tasks due to a shoulder injury, this limitation will be considered during the RFC evaluation.

Required Documentation for SSD Benefits with Shoulder Injuries

To build a strong case for SSD benefits due to a shoulder injury, you’ll need comprehensive medical evidence demonstrating the severity of your condition and its impact on your ability to work. Key documentation includes:

• Medical Records: Detailed records of your injury, including diagnosis, treatments, and progress notes from your healthcare provider.
• Imaging Studies: X-rays, MRIs, or CT scans that confirm the extent of the damage, such as a rotator cuff tear, dislocation, or joint degeneration.
• Surgical Records: Documentation of any surgical procedures, rehabilitation, and outcomes.
• Functional Limitations: Statements from your doctor outlining the specific ways your shoulder injury limits your ability to perform tasks like lifting, reaching, or carrying objects.
• Physical Therapy Records: Reports from physical therapy sessions that highlight your progress, ongoing limitations, or lack of improvement.
• Symptom Journal: A personal log of your pain levels, mobility issues, and how the injury impacts your daily life can add valuable context to your case.

Ready to Apply for Social Security Disability Benefits? Disability Associates Can Help

If a shoulder injury has made it impossible for you to work, applying for Social Security Disability benefits can provide financial relief. However, navigating the application process can be complex, especially when building a case around a specific injury. Disability Associates, LLC, a Social Security Disability Law Firm in Towson led by attorney Tracey N. Pate, is here to help.

Our firm focuses exclusively on Social Security Disability law, ensuring we have the expertise needed to handle cases involving shoulder injuries and other disabling conditions. We’ll work closely with you to gather the necessary medical evidence, submit your application, and guide you through every step of the process. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and let us help you secure the benefits you deserve. With Disability Associates by your side, you can focus on your recovery while we handle the rest.