Our Washington DC and  Baltimore Social Security Attorney Explains Multiple Sclerosis Disability Benefits

Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is an unpredictable disease that involves the central nervous system, which affects communication between the brain and other parts of the body.  MS can affect individuals on very different levels, from having a lower impact on the central nervous system to being very disabling. Without compensation, it may be difficult to carry out day-to-day life. Fortunately, our Baltimore Social Security disability lawyers can help you obtain benefits. 

How Does Multiple Sclerosis Affect the Body?

According to the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS), “most people experience their first symptoms of MS between the ages of 20 and 40.”  Some symptoms of MS include but are not limited to:

• Blurred or double vision
• Red-green color distortion
• Some blindness
• Muscle weakness
• Sensations such as numbness, prickling, or “pins and needles” 
• Speech impediments, tremors, and dizziness
• Hearing loss
• Cognitive impairments such as difficulties with concentration, attention, memory, and poor judgment

Unfortunately, presently, there is no cure for MS.  Some people do not need much treatment or therapy for their condition, while others need more serious medical attention.  

Does an MS Diagnosis Qualify for Disability in Maryland?

If you have been diagnosed with MS, you may be eligible for Social Security disability benefits if you satisfy certain medical criteria. The Social Security Administration (SSA) administers the Social Security Disability Income (SSD) program, which enables individuals to receive financial assistance if they have a qualifying disability (provided they have earned enough work credits).

The SSA uses a medical guide called the Blue Book to evaluate the medical criteria for a condition to determine if it qualifies as a medical disability.  The Blue Book includes a specific listing for MS under Section 11.09. In this listing, the SSA establishes specific medical criteria that must be met for an applicant to be eligible for SSD benefits. The Blue Book states that MS may be characterized by two different medical limitations, including the following:

• Disorganization of motor function in two extremities resulting in an extreme limitation in the ability to stand up from a seated position, balance while standing or walking, or use of the upper extremities, or
• Marked limitation in physical functioning and one of the following: 1) understanding, remembering or applying information; 2) interacting with others; 3) concentrating, persisting, or maintaining pace; or 4) adapting or managing oneself.

Do I Need a Washington DC or Baltimore Multiple Sclerosis Disability Attorney to File for Social Security Benefits?

When applying for SSD benefits, you will need to complete the application process correctly and submit sufficient medical documentation of your MS condition to the SSA.  Because the SSD application process is complicated, it would be beneficial to speak with an experienced Baltimore SSD attorney who can help you with the SSD application process. An experienced Washington DC  disability attorney at the Law Office of Emmett B. Irwin can help you with your MS disability case every step of the way. We are here to help.

Contact a Baltimore MS Disability Attorney Today for a Free Consultation

Have you applied for SSDI benefits because of your recent diagnosis of multiple sclerosis? If so, you likely already know how overwhelming the SSD process can be. The good news is that help is available! An experienced Baltimore SSD attorney at the Law Office of Emmett B. Irwin can help you obtain the benefits you deserve.  Contact us for a free case evaluation. We work with clients throughout Maryland and surrounding states, including Washington DC.