Duncanville Social Security Disability Attorney

Attorney for Social Security Disability Benefits in Duncanville, Texas

Navigating Social Security disability claims can be a complex process that can quickly become overwhelming. Understanding which medical conditions qualify for benefits and how the Social Security Administration (SSA) evaluates these conditions is crucial. Residents of Duncanville, Texas who may be dealing with serious medical conditions that impact their ability to work can benefit by receiving legal help from a qualified attorney. At The Law Offices of Coats & Todd, our experienced Social Security disability lawyers can provide invaluable assistance, guiding clients through the intricacies of the application and appeals processes and helping them secure the benefits they deserve.

How Our Attorneys Can Help With Social Security Disability Claims

Our lawyers can help clients compile the necessary medical evidence, complete complex paperwork, and ensure that all deadlines are met during the Social Security disability application process. If a claim is denied, we can provide representation during the appeals process, presenting a compelling case to the SSA. We can gather additional evidence of a disability, make sure our clients are prepared for hearings, and argue on their behalf to demonstrate why they should receive financial assistance.

Types of Medical Conditions That May Qualify for Social Security Disability Benefits

To qualify for Social Security disability benefits, a person must have a medical or psychological condition that has prevented or will prevent them from performing work and maintaining employment for at least 12 months, or their condition must be expected to result in their death. The SSA maintains a comprehensive list of impairments that automatically qualify for disability benefits, but even if a condition is not listed, applicants may still be eligible for disability benefits if they can demonstrate that their condition is severe enough to prevent them from maintaining gainful employment.

Conditions that may be addressed during Social Security disability cases include:

• Back Injuries: Spinal disorders and other conditions that affect the back are common reasons for disability claims. These conditions may include herniated discs, spinal stenosis, or degenerative disc disease. For a back injury to qualify as a disability, it must cause significant functional limitations, such as the inability to walk or sit for extended periods. Medical evidence, including imaging tests like MRIs and records of ongoing treatment, is crucial in these cases.
• Cancer: Different forms of cancer may be evaluated based on severity and the effectiveness of treatment. Some cancers, particularly those that are advanced or have metastasized, may automatically qualify for disability benefits. For others, the SSA will consider the impact of treatment side effects and the extent to which the cancer limits a person's ability to work. Medical documentation, including biopsy results, surgical records, and oncologist reports, will play a vital role in supporting a cancer-related disability claim.
• Multiple Sclerosis (MS): This chronic condition affects the central nervous system. The SSA evaluates MS based on symptoms such as muscle weakness, balance issues, and cognitive impairments. To qualify for disability benefits, a person must demonstrate that their condition has significantly impaired their ability to perform basic work tasks. Neurological exams, MRIs, and reports from treating neurologists are essential to these claims.
• Cerebral Palsy: This disorder, which affects movement and muscle coordination, can vary in severity, with some people experiencing mild symptoms and others having profound disabilities. The SSA assesses claims based on the level of functional impairment, including difficulties with walking, speaking, and performing daily tasks. Comprehensive medical records, including early developmental history and ongoing therapy reports, are critical in these cases.
• Lupus: This autoimmune disease can cause widespread inflammation and tissue damage. The SSA evaluates lupus under the category of immune system disorders, considering the severity of symptoms and their impact on a person's ability to work. Lupus can affect multiple organs, so thorough medical documentation from various specialists, including rheumatologists, is often necessary to substantiate a disability claim.
• Diabetes: This disease itself is not automatically considered a disability by the SSA. However, severe complications from diabetes, such as neuropathy, retinopathy, or chronic kidney disease, may qualify for benefits. The SSA will examine how these complications impair a person's daily functioning and their ability to work. Medical records detailing blood sugar management, complications, and treatment history are important for these claims.
• Crohn's Disease: This inflammatory bowel disease can cause severe digestive issues, including chronic pain and malnutrition. To qualify for disability benefits, a person must show that their condition significantly limits their ability to work, despite ongoing treatment. The SSA considers the frequency and severity of symptoms, along with the effectiveness of treatments. Gastroenterologist reports, hospital records, and detailed documentation of symptoms are key in supporting these claims.
• Respiratory Disorders: Conditions such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and asthma are evaluated by the SSA based on the extent to which they impair lung function and limit a person's ability to perform physical work. Pulmonary function tests, imaging studies, and treatment records are vital pieces of evidence in these cases.
• Vision Impairment: Blindness or loss of vision may qualify for disability benefits if it severely restricts a person's ability to perform work-related activities. The SSA considers both the severity of the visual impairment and the effectiveness of corrective measures. Documentation from ophthalmologists, including visual acuity tests and visual field assessments, is crucial in supporting a disability claim.
• Hearing Impairment: Loss of hearing can be disabling if it affects communication and the ability to work in environments where hearing is essential. The SSA evaluates hearing loss based on audiometric testing and considers how well a person can function with hearing aids or other assistive devices. Comprehensive audiologist reports are necessary to establish the extent of hearing impairment.
• Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: This condition can significantly impact a person's ability to perform tasks that require fine motor skills, such as typing or assembly work. The SSA assesses the severity of carpal tunnel syndrome based on medical records, nerve conduction studies, and the effectiveness of treatments like surgery or physical therapy.
• Mental Health Disorders: Conditions such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia can qualify for Social Security disability benefits if they severely limit a person's ability to work or engage in other daily activities. The SSA evaluates claims based on the extent of functional impairment and the effectiveness of treatment. Psychiatric evaluations, therapy records, and reports from mental health professionals are essential to these claims.

Contact Our Duncanville, TX Social Security Disability Attorney

When you are struggling with a medical condition that impacts your ability to work, Social Security disability benefits may be an essential lifeline. It is crucial to seek legal assistance during the application process or when dealing with a denied claim or appeal. At The Law Offices of Coats & Todd, our experienced attorneys can help navigate the legal issues related to Social Security disability and advocate on your behalf to help you secure the benefits you deserve. Contact us at 972-671-9922 to set up a free consultation.