Can Loss Of Body Movement Be A Disability?

Movement disorders refers to a group of neurological conditions that cause abnormal or increased movements. Some movements may be voluntary or involuntary. Movement disorders can also cause reduced or slow movements. Movement diseases and disorders affect millions of people around the world. These diseases are often difficult to treat and make it difficult for an individual to function normally in everyday life.

People diagnosed with this condition may have trouble moving in the direction they intend to or may experience unwanted movements. These disorders can affect one or multiple parts of an individual’s body. It may lead to symptoms such as spasms, jerking, or shaking, which can further deteriorate the quality of one’s life. 

It can be daunting for people when they are unable to control their bodily movements as they intend to. There are different types of movement disorders. Parkinson’s disease is one such critical disorder. Parkinson’s is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder that often impacts the movement of a person. The condition begins with minor symptoms, which tend to get worse over time. One of the first signs of this disease is a slight change in mobility. 

Below we have listed some of the common signs and symptoms associated with these diseases. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, you should consider visiting a medical specialist for adequate care and treatment. 

The early signs of the condition include the following: 

• Decreased ability to smell properly
• Voice changes
• Small handwriting
• Constipation
• Stooped posture 
• Tremors
• Slow movements
• Problems with balancing 
• Stiffness of the arms and legs

The secondary symptoms may include the following: 

• Muffled, low voice
• Tendency to fall backward
• May have difficulty walking
• Decreased blinking

Individuals diagnosed with a mobility disorder are at a higher risk of experiencing symptoms such as anxiety and depression. They are likely to experience problems associated with memory and concentration. Often, early symptoms go unrecognized, making it difficult to treat the condition later. 

People who have been diagnosed with these disorders are more likely to be poorly educated, living alone, impoverished, obese, and have problems conducting daily activites and self-care. For financial and medical support, you can file a disability claim as soon as you start facing disability issues. When these conditions have troubled you for more than a year, you may be able to qualify for benefits.

How to Treat This Disease

Currently, there is no cure for many of these diseases. A physical and neurological exam is conducted to evaluate and review the symptoms associated with these conditions. Certain medications may help reduce and control the symptoms associated with these diseases. People who do not respond to the drugs may have to undergo surgery. 

We can say that it is a lifelong disease that has no specific cure. These conditions can significantly impact the health of an individual and make it difficult to maintain gainful employment. If your situation is critical, you can also consider seeking disability benefits for your mobility disorder. Below, we have listed the criteria you may have to fulfill to get SSDI for Parkinson’s disease. 

Meeting the Disability Listing 

These diseases may be considered a disability covered under listing 11.06 for adult neurological disorders. You may be able to establish entitlement to benefits if you meet the disability listing for the condition. 

To be approved, you should have medical records to prove the following: 

• The condition causes movement problems of at least two extremities. This continues even though you have had treatment for at least three months. 
• The condition has led to extreme difficulties and challenges. One may experience difficulties in standing and walking correctly. 
• People may even experience difficulties in using their arms and legs effectively. 

In addition to the symptoms above, your records should demonstrate that you experience marked limitations in any one of the following conditions: 

• Limitation of thinking and understanding
• Limitation in socializing and interacting with others
• Limitations in concentrating and completing the desired tasks

Getting Approved Via a Medical Vocational Allowance

If your records do not meet the medical listing, you can apply via a medical-vocational allowance. To be approved under this category, you will have to show how your condition limits your ability to perform job related functions. You should provide the appropriate medical evidence and records from your healthcare provider to show the severity of your condition. 

There are several other factors that may be considered in the evaluation under medical-vocational rules. Your age, educational qualifications, skills, and residual functional capacity will be considered to evaluate eligibility for disability benefits. 

To begin the process, you can either fill out the application form online or via telephone. You can also visit the local Social Security Office to complete the forms and submit your paperwork. Ensure that you have the necessary medical documentation and other evidence with you before proceeding further. You can speak to a Disability Lawyer in Philadelphia for a better understanding of the SSA rules and claim procedure. It can take around four to five months to receive a decision on your claim.