Understand the Eligibility Requirements

To qualify for SSDI based on scoliosis, you must meet the SSA’s eligibility requirements:

• Work History: You must have worked for a certain number of years and paid Social Security taxes. If you have not worked enough to qualify for SSDI, you may still be eligible for Supplemental Security Income (SSI), which is based on financial need.
• Severe Disability: The SSA requires proof that your scoliosis is severe enough to prevent you from performing substantial gainful activity (SGA). In other words, your condition must prevent you from working for at least 12 months or is expected to result in death.

Prove That Scoliosis Prevents You from Working

Simply having scoliosis is not enough to qualify for SSDI. The SSA will assess whether the condition prevents you from working and earning a living. You will need to provide medical evidence showing the severity of your condition, including:

• Degree of Spinal Curvature: The SSA uses the severity of your scoliosis (often measured by the Cobb angle) to assess its impact. If the curvature is severe enough, it could potentially qualify you for SSDI.
• Functional Limitations: You must demonstrate that scoliosis restricts your ability to perform work-related tasks. This could include limitations in standing, sitting, walking, lifting, bending, or performing other physical tasks related to your job.

Meet the SSA’s Medical Criteria for Scoliosis

Scoliosis may qualify for SSDI under the SSA’s listing of impairments, specifically under the category of Musculoskeletal Disorders. The SSA evaluates conditions like scoliosis by reviewing whether:

• The curvature of your spine is severe (usually a Cobb angle of 50 degrees or greater).
• Your scoliosis results in significant functional limitations such as difficulty walking or standing for extended periods.
• You experience nerve root compression or other complications (like numbness or weakness) that affect your ability to perform work tasks.

Provide Comprehensive Medical Documentation

Medical documentation is critical in supporting your claim. The SSA will require:

• Records from Your Doctor: Detailed reports from your healthcare provider, including the severity of your scoliosis, treatment history, and how it affects your ability to function, are essential.
• X-rays and Imaging: Diagnostic imaging such as X-rays, MRIs, or CT scans can show the degree of spinal curvature and any nerve or joint damage that might result from scoliosis.
• Physical Therapy or Treatment Records: Documentation showing attempts to treat or manage your scoliosis, including physical therapy or surgical interventions, can strengthen your claim.

Complete the SSDI Application Accurately

When applying for SSDI, accuracy is critical. Make sure that your application clearly outlines how your scoliosis prevents you from working and what limitations it imposes on your daily life.

• Apply Online: The easiest way to apply is through the SSA’s online portal at www.ssa.gov. Be sure to fill out the application fully and truthfully.
• Be Honest and Thorough: Provide as much information as possible about your condition, including the impact of your scoliosis on your physical abilities, work history, and daily life.

Follow the SSA’s Five-Step Evaluation Process

The SSA evaluates SSDI claims using a five-step process. To qualify for benefits with scoliosis, you must pass through each step:

• Step 1: Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA): If you are working and earning above a certain income threshold, you may not qualify for SSDI.
• Step 2: Severe Condition: The SSA will determine whether your scoliosis significantly limits your ability to perform basic work tasks.
• Step 3: Meet a Listed Impairment: If your scoliosis is severe enough to meet or equal the SSA’s listed criteria for musculoskeletal disorders, you may be presumed disabled.
• Step 4: Past Work: If you are unable to perform your previous job due to scoliosis, the SSA will evaluate whether you can perform other types of work.
• Step 5: Other Work: If you can’t do your past job or other work, you may qualify for SSDI.

Be Prepared for a Possible Denial

Many SSDI claims are initially denied, even when the applicant has a legitimate case. If your claim for scoliosis is denied, you have the right to appeal the decision. The appeals process includes:

• Requesting Reconsideration: You can ask the SSA to review the denial.
• Requesting a Hearing: If reconsideration is denied, you can request a hearing before an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ), where you can present your case.

Make sure you gather any additional medical evidence that supports your claim during the appeals process.

Stay Organized and Follow Up

Keep track of your application’s progress and follow up regularly to ensure that your claim is moving forward.

• Create an SSA Online Account: This allows you to monitor your claim status and track any updates or requests for additional documentation.
• Stay in Contact: If you haven’t received updates or have questions, contact the SSA directly at 1-800-772-1213.