Can You Get Long-Term Disability Benefits For Back Pain?

If you have chronic back pain, you must know how hard it can be to do even the smallest household chores. If you were wondering, back pain is one of the conditions that qualify for long term disability in the U.S. However, getting benefits won’t be easy as you would have to prove that your condition is worth the benefits and prevents you from working. 

You may be surprised to know that one of the most common reasons why people file for long-term disability benefits is back pain. However, insurance companies have seemed to deny these claims at an alarming rate, often because people fail to show solid evidence. This is why it is recommended to get help from an experienced attorney. 

Common types of back problems

• Degenerative disc disease: In this condition, the spinal discs wear down as a normal part of aging. Spinal discs are cushions between your vertebrae that act as shock absorbers and help you move. 
• Herniated disc: The spinal discs between your vertebrae have a soft center called the nucleus. A herniated disc is when a spinal disc pushes through a crack in the annulus, causing lower back pain. 
• Spinal stenosis: The narrowing of the spinal canal results in spinal stenosis and puts pressure on the spinal cord and the nerves within the spine. 
• Osteoporosis: Osteoporosis is caused due to the loss of bone density that makes your bones more brittle and vulnerable to damage like breaking or fracturing. 

Documenting back pain for LTD benefits 

Collecting objective evidence is the most important to convince the insurance company of your condition. Your doctor may perform a number of diagnostic tests, such as x-rays, MRIs, and CT scans. It is crucial that you document your back pain injury and collect the test results. 

However, back pain claims are so complex because the diagnostic tests do not have clear or convincing evidence. Even with the most precise diagnosis, people with back pain problems may be denied benefits. Often, two people may suffer from the same kind of back pain problem, but it may not be disabling for one. 

Contact a lawyer 

Back pain LTD claims can be complex and challenging to prove. There are a variety of reasons why your claim may get denied. If you are struggling to get your LTD benefits and are worried about not earning an income, hire an attorney today.