Will I Receive SSD for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?
To qualify for Social Security disability benefits (SSD) for carpal tunnel syndrome or any other condition, the applicant must meet certain criteria. These include:
- Having accrued sufficient work credits and recent work credits to be eligible for SSD benefits, and
- Meeting the Social Security Administration (SSA) definition of “disabled” due to a medical condition or combination of medical conditions, and
- That disability has lasted or is expected to be terminal or last for at least 12 months
Here’s what you need to know about establishing that you are disabled by carpal tunnel syndrome.
What is Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?
Carpal tunnel syndrome is a medical condition that occurs when there is pressure on the median nerve, which passes through the carpal tunnel in the wrist. Symptoms may include pain in the hand, wrist, or fingers, numbness and tingling, weakness in the hand, and sometimes pain and/or numbness traveling up the arm. These symptoms are typically progressive if the condition is untreated, meaning that they tend to get worse as the person continues to engage in the activities that put pressure on the nerve.
Most Disability Due to Carpal Tunnel Syndrome is Temporary
Carpal tunnel syndrome can be treated in a variety of ways, including with rest, medication, adjustment of working position or processes, or wrist braces. However, sometimes surgery is required. And, if the condition is left untreated, the damage may become permanent.
For most people, SSD benefits aren’t the first resource for impairment due to carpal tunnel syndrome. In part that’s because most cases of carpal tunnel don’t result in long-term disability. And, carpal tunnel syndrome is often work-related, which means workers’ compensation benefits will typically cover medical care and replacement income during the period of disability. Private or employer-provided short-term disability benefits may also cover a temporary disability due to carpal tunnel.
SSD Benefits For This Syndrome
If carpal tunnel syndrome results in a disability that is expected to be long-term (longer than one year) or permanent, you may qualify for SSD benefits. However, carpal tunnel isn’t specifically listed in the Social Security Blue Book, and the burden will be on you to establish both that your condition prevents you from engaging in substantial gainful activity and that your condition will last at least 12 months.
Your best starting point is to talk to an experienced disability benefits advocate about your rights and options. You can get started right now by calling 800-800-3332 or filling out our contact form here.
