Steps to Apply for Social Security Disability for a Herniated Disc

Step 1: Understand the SSA’s Criteria for Disability

The SSA evaluates disability claims based on the severity of your condition and how it affects your ability to work. A herniated disc is a common condition that may cause debilitating pain, weakness, numbness, and difficulty with mobility. The SSA does not automatically approve disability claims for a herniated disc, so it’s essential to meet their criteria.

The SSA uses its Listing of Impairments, which outlines various conditions that can qualify for SSD benefits. While a herniated disc may not be listed specifically, it may qualify under the category of “Disorders of the Spine” or “Musculoskeletal Disorders.”

To qualify for Social Security Disability, the SSA will assess how your herniated disc impacts your ability to perform basic work activities. You must prove that:

• Your condition significantly limits your ability to perform work-related tasks.
• You have severe restrictions in your physical capabilities, such as standing, sitting, or walking for prolonged periods.
• Your condition is expected to last for at least 12 months or result in death.

Step 2: Provide Comprehensive Medical Evidence

To increase your chances of approval, you must provide detailed medical evidence showing how your herniated disc prevents you from working. This includes documentation of your symptoms, treatments, and how your condition limits your physical abilities.

Here’s what you should gather:

• Doctor’s Notes and Reports: Ensure that your treating physician provides clear documentation of your diagnosis, treatment plan, and how your condition impacts your ability to function.
• MRI and X-ray Results: Imaging results are critical in proving the severity of your herniated disc. These tests can show the location of the disc herniation and any nerve damage.
• Physical Therapy Records: If you’ve undergone physical therapy, include records to show the extent of your treatment and how it has or hasn’t helped alleviate symptoms.
• Surgical Records: If you’ve had surgery related to your herniated disc, include those records to show that your condition is being actively treated.
• Pain Management Records: If you’re receiving pain management treatment (such as injections, medications, or alternative treatments), this information will be important in showing the level of your disability.

Step 3: Demonstrate Severe Limitations

To meet the SSA’s criteria for a herniated disc, you must demonstrate that your condition severely limits your ability to work. The SSA evaluates your case using a five-step process, which includes the following:

• Step 1: Are You Working? If you are working and earning a certain amount of income, the SSA may determine you are not disabled. For 2025, this amount is $1,470 per month for non-blind individuals. If you earn above this amount, you may not qualify.
• Step 2: Is Your Condition Severe? Your herniated disc must be severe enough to limit your ability to perform basic work tasks, such as lifting, standing, or walking.
• Step 3: Does Your Condition Meet a Listing? The SSA’s Listing of Impairments includes spinal disorders that limit the ability to function. If your herniated disc causes nerve root compression, persistent pain, or neurological issues (such as weakness or numbness in your limbs), you may meet the SSA’s criteria.
• Step 4: Can You Perform Past Work? The SSA will assess whether you can still perform your previous job. If your herniated disc prevents you from doing your past work, they will move on to the next step.
• Step 5: Can You Do Other Work? The SSA will determine whether you can perform any other type of work based on your age, education, work experience, and residual functional capacity (RFC). If your condition prevents you from doing any other type of work, you may qualify for benefits.

Step 4: Prepare Your Application

Filling out the Social Security Disability application accurately and completely is crucial to your success. When applying for benefits due to a herniated disc, make sure to:

• Provide Detailed Information: Be specific about your condition, symptoms, and how they prevent you from working. Include information on your daily activities and limitations.
• Submit All Required Documents: Ensure that you provide the SSA with all the requested documents, including medical records, your work history, and any other required forms. Missing documents can delay the process.
• Be Honest About Your Condition: The SSA takes credibility seriously, so be honest about the extent of your limitations. Failing to disclose information could harm your case.

Step 5: Appeal if Necessary

If your claim is denied (which happens frequently), don’t get discouraged. Many Social Security Disability claims for herniated discs are initially denied. If this happens, you have the right to appeal the decision. The appeals process includes:

• Request for Reconsideration: If your claim is denied, you can request a review of your case.
• Hearing Before an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ): If reconsideration doesn’t work, you can request a hearing before an ALJ, where you can present your case in person.
• Submit Additional Evidence: If you receive new or updated medical records, be sure to include them during the appeal process to strengthen your case.