Can you win Social Security Disability benefits due to Fibromyalgia?

Posted in Social Security Disability on June 5, 2014

Fibromyalgia is a complex disease (syndrome) with widespread symptoms. Muscle pain and weakness lasting more than three months is one of the foremost factors, but a number of other abnormalities are usually present. Some studies indicate that 1 out of every 73 people in the United States suffer from this disease. The website Fibrocenter has a good article (found here) addressing myths and common misconceptions about Fibromyalgia.

The American College of Rheumatology lists nine pairs (18 total) of specific tender points associated with Fibromyalgia. These are found along the neck, shoulders, chest, elbows, lower back, hips, and knees. Having tenderness to pressure along eleven of these eighteen specific tender points is considered essential to the diagnosis of Fibromyalgia. Joint pain and stiffness as well as numbness and tingling in the extremities may be present.

A common symptom of Fibromyalgia is fatigue. People with Fibromyalgia sometimes suffer from significant fatigue and, due to exhaustion, are frequently unable to complete routine tasks, drive more than short distances, or focus on simple issues.
Cognitive dysfunction (“fibro fog”) may impair memory and concentration. Likewise, insomnia, depression, and anxiety plague victims of Fibromyalgia. Dizziness, heart palpitations, and shortness of breath may be severe factors in their lives.

The Social Security Administration has recognized Fibromyalgia as a medically determinable impairment that may be considered in evaluating a claimant for disability and SSI benefits. However, many people with Fibromyalgia are denied when they apply for Social Security disability benefits. Our Social Security Disability attorneys have years of experiences winning these tough cases. If you need assistance, call us for a free consultation at 615-256-8880.