Fibromyalgia was officially recognized by the Social Security Administration

Fibromyalgia was officially recognized by the Social Security AdministrationFibromyalgia was officially recognized by the Social Security Administration as a qualifying condition for Social Security Disability Benefits in a July 2012 ruling.

A complete copy of the ruling that provides guidance to SSD examiners is here: https://www.federalregister.gov/articles/2012/07/25/2012-17936/social-security-ruling-ssr-12-2p-titles-ii-and-xvi-evaluation-of-fibromyalgia#p-3

Based on these rules, the Social Security Administration will consider your fibromyalgia condition as a disability if your medical records demonstrates the following:

  • A history of widespread pain that lasts for at least three months.  The pain may fluctuate in intensity and may not always be present.
  • Evidence that other disorders that could cause the symptoms or signs were excluded; and
  • One of the following:
    • At least 11 tender points on physical examination OR
    • Repeated manifestations of six or more fibromyalgia symptoms including:
      • fatigue
      • cognitive or memory problems (often called “fibro fog”)
      • waking unrefreshed
      • depression
      • anxiety disorder
      • irritable bowel syndrome
      • muscle pain
      • muscle weakness
      • headache
      • pain or cramps in the abdomen
      • Raynaud’s phenomenon
      • hives or welts
      • blurred vision
      • fever
      • heartburn
      • oral ulcers
      • loss of taste
      • change in taste
      • seizures
      • dry eyes
      • shortness of breath
      • loss of appetite
      • rash
      • sun sensitivity
      • hearing difficulties
      • easy bruising
      • hair loss
      • frequent urination or bladder spasms

If you are a sufferer of fibromyalgia and are not  able to work, you may now apply for Social Security Disability benefits with your condition being recognized.  To increase your chances of getting Social Security Disability benefits, it is recommended to begin or continue treating with your physicians.  If possible, you try seeing a rheumatologist (a physician who specializes in conditions such as fibromyalgia).

Although this new ruling is excellent news for those suffering from fibromyalgia, proving a fibromyalgia case in front of the Social Security Administration can still be tricky.  You should consult with an experienced Social Security Disability attorney in your area to ensure the best possible result for your case.

This is NOT legal advice.  To discuss your particular circumstances and claim, please contact a lawyer in your area.

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