| Author |
Message |
    
Greg Crawford
Rating: N/A
Votes: 0 (Vote!) | | Posted on Wednesday, July 18, 2001 - 11:02 am: | 
|
I am a 48 year old male with a history of medical problems. I recently saw a rheumatologist who make the following diagnosis:
osteoarthritis (hands)
heel pain syndrome (6 years of treatment including injections and surgery)
chronic diffuse myofascial psin/chronic pain disorder
"fibromyaligia-like" process
chronic TMD (23 years)
hypertension
hyperlipidema
acid-reflux
non-restorative sleep
Do
you think I have a chance for SSDI? I have been unable to work for the
last 2.5 years. I had been employed for 11 years with the same company
before I went on STD to have my heel treated. (Now both of my heels
hurt)
Thanks For Any Help,
Greg
Reply by Paul Several things that might be helpful to you and others with fibromyalgia type problems:
Yes you have a chance at a disability claim.
There
are a class of impairments, including fibromyalgia, that depend to a
greater extent than others on the subjective complaints of the disabled
person. A judge cannot claim that someone does not have a shattered
femur, but he or she has a better chance of claiming that you don't
hurt as much as you say.
Some doctors and some judges are hostile to such claims.
Claims
based on subjective symptoms must be handled more carefully than any
other sort. Line up your doctors, and get a good lawyer early.
If
you have no clerical skills, it is easier to get disability once you
are 50. But don't wait! You should be either working, or pursuing a
disability claim. If you wait too long your eligibility might expire. |
Debra Hadley
Rating: N/A
Votes: 0 (Vote!) | | Posted on Sunday, March 23, 2003 - 2:16 pm: |
|
I am 44 yrs. old and have been diagnosed with Fibromyalgia. I have a
job but I often miss alot of work because of it. Sometimes in the
morning I cannot get out of bed because the pain is so severe. I have
been to a Rheumatologist, a Neurologist who has given me so many
medications ( some of them I can't even drive with). My question is
should I wait to lose my job because I know that's what's going to
happen eventually. I spoke to my Doctor about putting me out of work,
but he says he does not do that for his patients. Please can you help
me. I feel as though my Doctor does not care neither does my job and I
feel like I'm in a constant struggle just to cope with the pain,
Sometimes the pain is so severe It brings depression. I don;t know what
else to do please help me. Thanks |
Paul McChesney (Admin)
Rating: N/A
Votes: 0 (Vote!) | | Posted on Wednesday, March 26, 2003 - 10:18 am: |
|
Fibromyalgia involves a special kind of disability claim that calls for
extra care in handling. This is because for most fibromyalgia
sufferers, there is no test that tells whether you have the disease,
nor its severity. So, often you is uncertain, right up to the hearing,
as to whether or not you are going to be successful. These are the
suggestions I have for people who are suffering from this disease and
thinking about disability.
-Choose your doctor carefully.
Some believe in lots of strong medicines; others say the medicines
themselves can be the biggest problem. I am not about to choose sides
in this argument.
-Choose your doctor carefully. If your
treating doctor will not say you are disabled, winning this kind of
claim is going to be difficult. Ideally, as the case is coming up for a
hearing, you want all doctors to be saying that you are disabled.
-If
you are working, be sure you have as much long term and short term
disability insurance as possible, and get rid of luxuries and save
money. You must have as many nets under you as possible. Several, or
all, might not work. Social Security is only one of them.
-Do not give up a job lightly. It might be your last.
-If
you miss a little work, preferably after you are sure your doctors are
behind you, perhaps file, since it can take a year and a half or more
to get to a hearing in a Social Security disability case. Then, if you
are able, go back to work and keep your case going, too. This can make
a mess, but it can also save you.
-Get a lawyer early in this
type of case; do not try to do it on your own, and be sure the two of
you check with each other every 3 months or so to be certain you are on
track.
-Depression is often an important part of a
fibromyalgia case. Oddly enough, the depression, which is
psychological, can often be quantified by testing easier than the
fibromyalgia, which is physical.
-It is difficult to get a
judge to take depression seriously unless your are going to a doctor,
preferably a psychiatrist, or mental health as a poor second choice. |
SISTAKOOT
Rating: N/A
Votes: 0 (Vote!) | | Posted on Monday, September 08, 2003 - 6:59 pm: |
|
I have recently been diagnosed with Fibromyalgia by Rheumatologist at
N.I.H. Also my private Rheumatologist dx'd me about 2 years ago. I also
have cervical disk disease (discectomy in '96) I get flare ups of
pinced nerve in neck and lumbar spine very frequently now. I have
carpal tunnel in right hand and DeQuervain's tendonitis in both thumbs
and nerve entrapment in both elbows. I have Diabetes, Mitral Valve
Regurgitation, arthritis in my left foot and bone spurs in both knees
and neck. I type all day. Now using a mouse. I can't sit for more than
15 minutes and when I walk I have foot pain. My hands now are getting
numb and the fingers get stiff and my arms ache after typing for 14
minutes. My Occupational Therapist ordered me to rest 10 minutes out of
every hour by lying down! How can I do that on the job? I don't know
what to do but I have been missing a lot of time aat work due to neck
and back pain and fatigue. Do you think I can get SS disability? Help!!
CChen in MD |
Paul McChesney (Admin)
Rating: N/A
Votes: 0 (Vote!) | | Posted on Sunday, November 02, 2003 - 4:53 pm: |
|
Yes, if you prove it. No vocational expert will say that you can work
if you have to lie down much during the work day, and the other things
are bad problems, too.
Your claim might go through the first
time on your own; or you can play it a little safer and get an
attorney. Certainly do so if you are denied.
Take care; good luck. |
Marsha Mackey (Cluelessmack)
New member
Username: Cluelessmack
Post Number: 1
Registered: 8-2004
Rating: N/A
Votes: 0 (Vote!) | | Posted on Sunday, August 15, 2004 - 9:40 am: |
|
I
am 29 years old and have been diagnosed with fibromyalgia by 2
neurologist, 1 reumatologist, 1 internest, and 1 family doctor. My
reumatologist and internist are going to write a letter on my behalf
for disability. I also have Thyroid disease, blood disorder (ITP),
arrethymia, depression, I break out in hives everyday for no known
reason, arthritis in my hands and knees, chronic fatique, I have
trouble moving around and getting up in the morning. I am in constent
pain. I have trouble sleeping which causes me to be tired through out
the day. also have IBS with constipation. I cannot use the bathroom on
my own. The Doctors also said that they would sign for me to get a
handicap tag for my vehicle. I have not tried to file yet, but I'm
going to try this week. Do I have A chance to get it on the first try?
or do I neet a lawyer to assist me? How much will an attorney fee be?
Or will the SSI take care of it? Thank You |
Marsha Mackey (Cluelessmack)
New member
Username: Cluelessmack
Post Number: 2
Registered: 8-2004
Rating: N/A
Votes: 0 (Vote!) | | Posted on Tuesday, August 24, 2004 - 7:25 am: |
|
Paul,
I have alot of disabilities such as severe fibromyalgia, thyroid
disease, blood disorder (ITP), Gerd, IBS unable to have a bowel
movemenet on my own, Hives everyday, High cholesterol, abnormal heart
rytheam, deppression, anxitey, sleep disorder. cant stand or sit for
long periods of time, I am currently taking 12 medications for the
problems I have. I'm in constant pain. I have been diagnosed with
fibromyalgia by 2 neuorologist, 1 internist, 1 family doctor, and 1
reumotoligist. My reumotologist and internist said that they would
write on my behalf for disability and a handicap sticker. I also have
trouble with swelling in my hand and feet. They also go numb as well as
my face. How hard do you think it will be to try to get disability. You
see I'm only 29 and I'm a little imbarrased about going to try. I've
had most of these problems for over four years. Do you Have any advice
for me It would be greatly appreciated. I live in Cheraw South
Carolina. Thanks so Much Marsha |
Paul McChesney (Admin)
Board Administrator
Username: Admin
Post Number: 769
Registered: 5-2004
Rating: N/A
Votes: 0 (Vote!) | | Posted on Thursday, August 26, 2004 - 6:49 am: |
|
Marsha,
if your condition is so severe that you cannot even attend work, and if
you can prove it, you have a chance at a Social Security claim. Of
course you should work if at all possible, but if you cannot you should
file. Depending on circumstances you cannot control, Social Security
might turn out to be the only possible source of income for you.
It is harder to win a case if you are young, but young people do win cases.
It
is harder to be sure that you will win your case if you have certain
conditions, such as fibromyalgia, that are difficult to measure, but
fibromyalgia cases can be won.
It helps a lot to have several doctors saying you are disabled.
In light of all factors, I would go ahead and get a lawyer. |
Kathy Davis
Unregistered guest
Rating: N/A
Votes: 0 (Vote!) | | Posted on Sunday, October 10, 2004 - 3:08 pm: |
|
I
was diagnosed 10 yrs ago with Fibromyalgia and Chronic Fatigue by my
Rheumatologist whom I see every 3 mos for injections in most painful
trigger areas just to be able to keep walking and moving neck, arms and
back. I also have ventricular tachycardia, syncope, IBS with spastic
colon, chronic diarrhea, Chronic Insterstial Cystitis (no control of my
bladder as the Emiron does not agree with me and I can not take it),
carpal tunnel in both wrists, migraine disease, myalgia and myositis,
neuropathy both legs, GERD, hiatal hernia, asophageal spasms, abnormal
unexplained weight loss, depression and anxiety. I am under the routine
care of a neurologist, a rheumatologist, a cardiologist, a surgeon, a
gastroenterologist, a urologist, and a gynecologist. I am 55 yrs old
and I left my position September 1 yr ago because I could no longer
keep pushing myself to keep up the hours and the stress in my work. I
filed a claim for diabaility benefits in April, 2004. I received a
denial of benefits approximately 2 weeks ago. While they admit I can
never do my job again and they outline numerous limitations in the
denial, they say I can do unskilled work. I haven't been able to do my
own housework for the last 5 to 6yrs and told them plus many other
things I can no longer do I was once able to do. Some days I' fortunate
to be able to dress myself and get from the bedroom to the kitchen. My
doctors are supportive of my disability especially by Rheumatologist.
Should I appeal my denial? |
Paul McChesney (Admin)
Board Administrator
Username: Admin
Post Number: 897
Registered: 5-2004
Rating: N/A
Votes: 0 (Vote!) | | Posted on Friday, November 19, 2004 - 6:29 pm: |
|
Yes.
Hire an attorney and she will almost certainly make a copy of the file
and maybe you can see there what went wrong; surely the problems you
have cannot be detailed fully in the record, or perhaps there are some
bad doctor's reports in with the good. Be sure to appeal in time, and
be sure you can prove you appealed. |
Sharon Bouldin (Sdbouldin)
New member
Username: Sdbouldin
Post Number: 1
Registered: 1-2005
Rating: 
Votes: 1 (Vote!) | | Posted on Wednesday, January 12, 2005 - 11:13 pm: |
|
I
have been diagnosed with Fibromyalgia about six months ago and I found
out from my rheumatologist that I have had FMS for at least 5 years. I
was being treated all that time at my local Mental Health Department.
The doctor there always told me that I had depression and anxiety. He
never addressed my complaints of constant pain, fatigue, sleep
disorders....all symptoms of FMS. I cannot sit at my computer more than
15 minutes without having horrible pain in my neck and shoulders. I
cannot raise either of my arms above my shoulders. I cannot even take
out bags of trash or do housework without stopping several times. I
cannot even consider doing any kind of light yardwork. I applied for
Social Security Disability in August of 2004. I was denied on 12/6/04.
I called Social Security and told them that I wanted to appeal their
decision and desired to hire an attorney to represent me. They gave me
a attorney referral 800 number. I called that number and found out they
have NO REFERRALS for my area. I live in the Outer Banks. My reason for
contacting you is: I am 52 years old, have not worked since December of
2003, I was laid off because I could not perform my work and often had
to call in sick because I could not get out of bed due to pain, I
cannot find a local attorney to represent me and I cannot drive very
far due to my illness. I am scared that I will not be able to find
representation and my 60 days to appeal the denial is running out. I
don't know how to "document" with Social Security that I want to
appeal. Please help me. Thank you, Sharon |
Amber Denise
Unregistered guest
Rating: N/A
Votes: 0 (Vote!) | | Posted on Thursday, January 27, 2005 - 8:03 pm: |
|
I
have been diagnosed with fibromyalgia. I am only 27 years old. I am
suffering from sleep disorders and depression. I have a very hard time
concentrationg on anything. I have severe pain in my upper back and
shoulders, that makes it very hard for me to do even the simplist
things, like brushing out my daughters hair. Any action I do that
requires me to hold my arms out away from my body gives me terrible
pain. I experience ringing in my ears and get dizzy and have even
passed out from this on several occasions from standing in one spot for
a short amount of time. Sitting makes me have terrible burning pain up
and down my spine especially in my upper back. My pain affects
everything I do. I can't even keep up with cleaning my house without
having to go lay down to rest my back. I got married and had kids at a
very young age and I have been a stay at home mother for the last 10
years. I have had a few jobs but I only keep them for about 6 to 8
months. Now my problem has gotten so much worse, I know I could not
hold onto a job. Do you think I have any chance of getting disability.
Thank You. |
Paul McChesney (Admin)
Board Administrator
Username: Admin
Post Number: 1000
Registered: 5-2004
Rating: N/A
Votes: 0 (Vote!) | | Posted on Sunday, January 30, 2005 - 9:16 pm: |
|
Well,
maybe, but you have probably not worked enough to get Social Security
bility. Since you are under 30, you would have to show that you had
earned two credits for each year since you turned 21, roughly. I guess
you cannot do that.
For SSI your household must have an
income below a certain amount. If you are not sure, file a claim and
get a good attorney to file a claim if you are denied.
If you
were to get coverage, of course as is discussed above in prior posts,
you need to have a little luck and a very good doctor to win a
fibromyalgia case, but it can be done.
It is a long shot, but
if you make a little money in each of 5 years, you might get into
coverage. It is often true that someone who could not handle a "real
job" could earn enough to get the needed credits. Think seriously about
doing this. |
Paul McChesney (Admin)
Board Administrator
Username: Admin
Post Number: 1001
Registered: 5-2004
Rating: N/A
Votes: 0 (Vote!) | | Posted on Monday, January 31, 2005 - 5:24 am: |
|
Sharon, please see my page explaining how to find a lawyer. Take care and good luck. |
Anonymous
Rating: N/A
Votes: 0 (Vote!) | | Posted on Wednesday, April 20, 2005 - 10:37 am: |
|
I
am 38 years old and I have been diagnosed with fibromyalgia,
carpulturnal syndrom, osteoarthritis, IBS(w/dirahhea) and I am taking
welbutrin for anxiety problems. I worked in a mill for 17 years and was
terminated for too many absences due to my condition. I have alot of
problems with back and shoulder pain and pain throughout my body. My
memory is not as good as it once was. I cannot handle alot of heavy
lifting, stand for long amounts of time or sit a a computer for long
amounts of time because of I will be in alot of pain and I also tire
very easily. Would I be a good canidate for disability? |
Paul McChesney (Admin)
Board Administrator
Username: Admin
Post Number: 1121
Registered: 5-2004
Rating: N/A
Votes: 0 (Vote!) | | Posted on Sunday, April 24, 2005 - 9:11 pm: |
|
Maybe. You have to be able to make it through a full 8 hour day in order to work.
But you also have to prove you are so limited, and that is sometimes difficult.
In fibromyalgia claims in particular, I suggest hiring a lawyer early, because they must be so carefully developed. |
Mia Bonner (Unregistered Guest)
Unregistered guest
Rating: N/A
Votes: 0 (Vote!) | | Posted on Wednesday, April 13, 2005 - 12:55 pm: |
|
My
34-year-old friend's been disabled, going through this process 4 yrs.
Has Medicaid, food stamps, but depends on others for shelter. Sees many
specialists. Always in bed, in pain, not sleeping. Taking >20 meds.
Dazed.
Started w/ botched back surgery. Now fibromyalgia/CFS,
deQuervain's, carpal tunnel, diabetes, hypertension, arthritis, now
obese, Sjogren's, wounds won't heal. Major depression.
How
can one work when they can't bathe or dress & not wipe out? My
friend looks old. Can't sit, stand, lie down for long. Blood sugar, BP
all over. Driving, operating machinery too dangerous. Rheumatologist
suspecting Cushing's.
SSA denials say age a factor. Why, when
ailments are like someone twice as old? I believe my friend had chance
of getting better if she'd gotten disability sooner. I fear suicide,
tried once. She feels useless, burdensome, tired of hurting, thinking
of life w/no help, hope. What to do? |
Paul McChesney (Admin)
Board Administrator
Username: Admin
Post Number: 1120
Registered: 5-2004
Rating: N/A
Votes: 0 (Vote!) | | Posted on Sunday, April 24, 2005 - 9:05 pm: |
|
She
sounds disabled to me, of course. I cannot tell where in the process
she is, and I cannot tell what her medical records say; sometimes a
person's true conditions are not shown on the medical record, and that
is the problem.
She needs to hire a good lawyer and go over the medical records with him and make a plan.
Take
care of her. Don't despair. If you will go to the main topics page,
there are some topics about how to speed things up and how to avoid
despair. I will not say that they are great suggestions, but they are
all I know about those two problems. |
Paul McChesney (Admin)
Board Administrator
Username: Admin
Post Number: 1163
Registered: 5-2004
Rating: 
Votes: 1 (Vote!) | | Posted on Sunday, May 22, 2005 - 5:45 am: |
|
Here are some good fibromyalgia links, taken from Google Answers:
The Fibromyalgia Personal Support Center
http://fmpsc.org/
The Discussion Wall
http://fmpsc.org/wall/discussion.html
eFibro.com
http://www.efibro.com/
“A place for those with fibromyalgia to share their thoughts and
experiences regarding the living with and dealing with this disease.”
Fibrohugs Fibromyalgia
http://www.fibrohugs.com/
“Our friendly and supportive place is where sufferers of
Fibromyalgia, their families and friends, can come for tough love,
gentle hugs, and lifelong friendships. You will learn about
Fibromyalgia, and ways we can help ourselves to fight this horrid
disease. You'll find many supportive people on our Message Forums with
whom you can ask questions, talk about problems, or just have a
friendly shoulder to cry on.”
Fibromyalgia Support
http://www.fibromyalgiasupport.com/
“World’s largest Fibromyalgia Site.”
Includes chat room and message boards
Chronic Fatigue Syndrome and Fibromyalgia Information Exchange Forum
http://www.co-cure.org/index.htm
Chock full of information and links
Message board
http://co-cure.org/wwwboard/
The Fibromyalgia Community
http://fmscommunity.org/index.htm
Support group links
http://fmscommunity.org/sptgrp.htm
Fibromyalgia Support Groups Directory
http://www.theriver.com/Public/cfids/usspt.htm
Includes links to support groups by state.
National Fibromyalgia Association
http://www.fmaware.org/
Noah Health
http://www.noah-health.org/english/illness/neuro/cfs.html
Ask NOAH About: Chronic Fatigue Syndrome and Fibromyalgia
Scroll halfway down page for the start of the fibromyalgia links
Yahoo Group
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/M_E_/
“This group is for people with M.E./CFS/CFIDS and FMS, it is a
self-help support group for people with these conditions. Members can
share information on their personal experiences, relate to others,
make new friends, share their recommended treatments and non
recommended treatments, share photographs, post messages on the
message board.”
FMS–CHAT Fibromyalgia Chat Group
http://www.lclark.edu/~sherrons/supportgroups.htm
“The FMS–CHAT support group, for persons with fibromyalgia syndrome
(FMS), has a very active, informed membership. Issues frequently
discussed are medications, alternative therapies, and applying for
Disability (social security, insurance, etc.).
Despite its name, this is not really a "chat room," but rather a
listserv conducted via email. Before joining this listserv, recognize
that members receive a high volume of mail, sometimes as many as 300
messages a day."
The Fibro Page from She Who Watches and Waits
http://members.tripod.com/~Mamajaz/windancr/s-fibro.html
An extensive list of links concerning Fibromyalgia may be found at:
Found Health
http://www.foundhealth.com/Health/Conditions_and_Diseases/F/Fibromyalgia/
The Google Fibromyalgia Directory
http://directory.google.com/Top/Health/Conditions_and_Diseases/Musculoskeletal_D
isorders/Connective_Tissue/Fibromyalgia/Support_Groups/ |
Jamie (Unregistered Guest)
Unregistered guest
Rating: N/A
Votes: 0 (Vote!) | | Posted on Tuesday, May 10, 2005 - 4:22 pm: |
|
I
am 25 yrs old and have been sick and worsening(fatigue, chronic pain,
fibro flare/fog, etc.) for over a year. I was diagnosed just a few
months ago with fibromyalgia. This is a highly disputed condition but
from a person dealing with its' very real neurological impairments are
making it extremely hard to live and function as even half a person. I
am currently working at a great employer but feel like I am killing
myself.I have two young children that I have a hard time taking care of
also. I am still searching for a great medical team but currently there
is not alot of people out there that even know about my condition. I
was going to school part time and working fulltime when I got sick. I
had to drop out of school when I got sick. I have to work or lose my
house and medical benefits. I am exploring options, I never knew that
disability was available to my age group. Please help! I live in
michigan and not sure how the law differ from yours??? |
Paul McChesney (Admin)
Board Administrator
Username: Admin
Post Number: 1168
Registered: 5-2004
Rating: N/A
Votes: 0 (Vote!) | | Posted on Sunday, May 22, 2005 - 7:03 am: |
|
Gather
all your medicals if you can and sit down and talk to a good lawyer.
Think a long time before letting go a job. Be sure your doctor is
backing you up before you start. Try to come up with a financial plan
to survive the long wait. Get Long Term Disability insurance if
possible. |
Beth Beheler (Unregistered Guest)
Unregistered guest
Rating: N/A
Votes: 0 (Vote!) | | Posted on Wednesday, May 18, 2005 - 3:09 pm: |
|
Hello.....I
am Beth, a 44 year old registered nurse(4 total years of college) who
was diagnosed with fibromyalgia in 1995(though symptoms began in 1991);
also the seemingly common problems of non-restorative sleep disorder,
fatigue, irritable bowel syndrome, confusion, and memory loss. Over the
years the disease has gradually gotten worse; I have now lost 3 jobs
and had to quit 3 others in a 12 month period, as the pain is so
severe, I can't stand long enough to shower or dress. One day I forced
myself to work, and in my fog had a car accident on the way home. I get
confused and transpose numbers quite often-----NOT a good thing, and my
concentration is worse than my son, who had ADHD.If I hold objects,
like pens, for long, my hands start to ache, then go numb. I get clumsy
and often drop things or fall. |
Beth Beheler (Unregistered Guest)
Unregistered guest
Rating: N/A
Votes: 0 (Vote!) | | Posted on Wednesday, May 18, 2005 - 3:10 pm: |
|
Beth,
part 2...I can't stay in one position for long, and if I actually pull
a muscle, the pain is so bad that I must stay in bed, with help to get
to the bathroom and do basic things for me, like grooming. I can't lift
without getting shaky and dropping the object, or pulling a muscle, or
both. I can't sit at a computer for long because my neck and arms get
so stiff and sore. If I kneel or squat down, someone has to help me up,
and I can only do the lightest of household chores. Pain rambles at
will through my body, leaving me depressed and anxious, not to mention
out of control. When I am able to work, I go so slowly to avoid the
confusion/brain fog from causing mistakes that I might as well not be
there.....and if I might harm a patient, as a professional, my ethics
will not allow such a situation. |
Beth Beheler (Unregistered Guest)
Unregistered guest
Rating: N/A
Votes: 0 (Vote!) | | Posted on Wednesday, May 18, 2005 - 3:11 pm: |
|
Beth,
final post!...Yet, I'm without a job and far from retirement age. My
entire family thinks I'm a flake because until I learned to say "I'll
be there IF I can", I was constantly having to cancel things. Now I
take each day as it comes. Is there any basis for me to get disability?
I live in the Raliegh, NC area. Sorry for the long message; thanks for
listening. |
Paul McChesney (Admin)
Board Administrator
Username: Admin
Post Number: 1164
Registered: 5-2004
Rating: N/A
Votes: 0 (Vote!) | | Posted on Sunday, May 22, 2005 - 6:08 am: |
|
Fibromyalgia
can be the basis of a disability claim, and if there are long periods
during an 8 hour day during which you cannot perform basic work
functions, you are disabled.
Often, the tricky part of
fibromyalgia claims is proving that you have fibromyalgia and proving
that it is severe enough to prohibit work. For that, you need both a
good doctor and a good lawyer. Because these claims are so tricky to
document, you need to hire both early. |
Vicky in PA (Unregistered Guest)
Unregistered guest
Rating: N/A
Votes: 0 (Vote!) | | Posted on Monday, August 01, 2005 - 5:55 pm: |
|
Paul,
I am 46 years old and have had fibromyalgia symptoms since early 1980's
but actual diagnosis wasn't until 1996. I have worked with pain and
discomfort until May 19, 2004. At this time I took a leave of absence
to try to combat the problems. Over a year later I am still not
working. My employer let me go when I told him that I could not return
when the leave ended. I applied for disability in Sept. of 2004. I have
an excellent dr. and atty. that are backing me up and I am currently
awaiting a hearing. My question is the differences in laws between
Pennsylvania and North Carolina, as I am planning to relocate,
hopefully, upon approval. Thank you. |
ANTOINIQUE (Unregistered Guest)
Unregistered guest
Rating: N/A
Votes: 0 (Vote!) | | Posted on Monday, August 01, 2005 - 12:27 pm: |
|
I
AM A 34 YR. OLD FEMALE WHO HAS BEEN UNABLE TO KEEP A STEADY JOB,
BECAUSE I WAS FINALLY DIAGNOSED WITH FIBROMYALGIA. AFTER SO MANY YEARS
OF LIVING IN CHRONIC PAIN SINCE THE AGE OF ABOUT 18 YRS.OLD.MY QUESTION
IS WHY AM I NOT ELIGIBLE FOR DISABILITY BENEFITS WHEN I CAN'T LIVE A
NORMAL LIFE OR WORK A JOB?CAN YOU PLEASE HELP ME TO BETTER UNDERSTAND
WHY THIS REASON IS WHEN MY PHYSCIAN RECOMMENDED ME TO GO THROUGH THE
PROCESS OF EVEN APPLYING FOR SOCIAL SECURITY BENEFITS. |
Paul McChesney (Admin)
Board Administrator
Username: Admin
Post Number: 1374
Registered: 5-2004
Rating: N/A
Votes: 0 (Vote!) | | Posted on Wednesday, August 03, 2005 - 11:03 am: |
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If
you can prove you cannot attend work on a predictable basis, you should
get benefits. The problem with fibromyalgia is that it is very
difficult to quantify exactly how impaired you are, which sometimes
leaves room for a judge to deny someone who is actually disabled.
But
not always. If your problem is fibromyalgia, you need to get a good
doctor, a good lawyer, and be prepared to appeal a lot.
I am sorry you are having so much problems. Take care. |
Judith A Brigman (Unregistered Guest)
Unregistered guest
Rating: N/A
Votes: 0 (Vote!) | | Posted on Monday, September 12, 2005 - 10:19 am: |
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Have
Fibro/diagnosed by a Rheum.& Family Dr.-Degenerative Arthritis,
Fibro,TMJ,Migraines,IBS,Chronic Fatique,butterfly rash on my face, but
they say I don't have lupus, Worked in a metal stampling plant for 13
yrs, alot of physical repetive heavy lifting 10 hrs 6-days. Have
moderate-severe carpa tunnel I have been denied 3 times for disa.
Fatique problems since 1995, but always worked. I had my son @ 40, I
went back to work when he was 6 mo. old,and worked with the fatigue.I
was laid off in Mar of 01, collected unemployment. In 2002, Invasive
Cervical Cancer St1B, I had a radical hysterctomy, after the surgery I
started going on job interviews then I got sick in November 02.
Diagnosed w/Fibro and ever since I have not gotten better,My Dr
mentioned disability but I didn't want to pursue it. After a few mnths
I did't get better so filed in Dec.of 2003.Someday soon God promises
ALL of our suffering will be GONE worldwide Rev.21:3,4 Ps.37:10,11,29 |
Paul McChesney (Admin)
Board Administrator
Username: Admin
Post Number: 1560
Registered: 5-2004
Rating: N/A
Votes: 0 (Vote!) | | Posted on Sunday, September 25, 2005 - 5:59 pm: |
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Judith:
Be sure you have doctors who are supporting you, and, if you are denied, hire an attorney. Take care and good luck. |
Anonymous
Rating: N/A
Votes: 0 (Vote!) | | Posted on Saturday, September 17, 2005 - 9:01 pm: |
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I
am a 53yr old female who has worked at the same job for 31yr and I am
physical getting so I cannot do it. I do ultrasounds that has caused
carpal tunnel syndrone in which surgery has corrected but has come. I
suffer for IBS, chronic fatigue, syjogrens disease, osteoarthritis,
high blood pressure, high cholesterol. I am exhausted and in so much
pain I can barely work an 8 hour shift. I was recently hositalized for
chest pain, SOB and they think I have a blockage in my smaller veins in
my heart which can't be fixed. There also a question as to if I have X
syndrome. I can't stand or sit for very long and my eyes are so dry I
can't use a computor for very long.I can't do my job and don't know
which way to turn. My rheumotologists also thinks I have fibromyalgia.
Should I apply for disability. |
Paul McChesney (Admin)
Board Administrator
Username: Admin
Post Number: 1558
Registered: 5-2004
Rating: N/A
Votes: 0 (Vote!) | | Posted on Sunday, September 25, 2005 - 5:54 pm: |
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Anonymous,
it is always easy to say that you should file if you are not working;
you have little to lose. Often, if you are missing work, you can file a
claim when you are out and go back to work and try to keep your claim
going. I have a topic about this if you want to try it.
If
you are working and thinking about letting go, I almost always suggest
getting your medicals together and sitting down with a good Social
Security lawyer to talk; after that you are going to have to make some
hard choices which will require careful thought. Take care. |
Paul McChesney (Admin)
Board Administrator
Username: Admin
Post Number: 1556
Registered: 5-2004
Rating: N/A
Votes: 0 (Vote!) | | Posted on Sunday, September 25, 2005 - 5:47 pm: |
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Sure. Fibromyalgia is harder to prove than some other problems, though, so I would get a lawyer right now. Take care. |
Anonymous
Rating: N/A
Votes: 0 (Vote!) | | Posted on Sunday, September 25, 2005 - 8:42 pm: |
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if
i applied for social security disability a few years back and was
turned down and if i apply again and get approved,is it true that the
social security pays back to the first time i applied or is that
justwhat people tend to think |
Anonymous
Rating: 
Votes: 2 (Vote!) | | Posted on Saturday, October 01, 2005 - 9:29 pm: |
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i
have fibromyalgia,attheritis,depression and now my neurologist says i
have corpal tunnel i was diagnosed in 1997 for everything but the
corpal tunnel,that was just in the past couple of weeks,do you think i
have a very good chance of getting aproved for disability |
Anonymous
Rating: N/A
Votes: 0 (Vote!) | | Posted on Tuesday, January 17, 2006 - 7:20 pm: |
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I
was told that I have bone Degenerative disease and that was after lower
lumbar L4 and L5 fusion surgery in 2001. Now in less than a year I
found out that I have fibromyalgia. I stop working in 2001. I was just
denied by disability so what do I do next. Because I have the same
problems just like everyone else. Sooooooooooo what do I do next? |
Anonymous
Rating: N/A
Votes: 0 (Vote!) | | Posted on Tuesday, January 17, 2006 - 7:22 pm: |
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I am also 30 years old and a mother of 3 kids and a wife. |
jeri williford (Unregistered Guest)
Unregistered guest
Rating:
Votes: 1 (Vote!) | | Posted on Saturday, April 01, 2006 - 9:28 pm: |
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i have just been diagnos with fibromyalgia.i also suffer with high blood pressure,anxiety attacks,depression,ibs,asthma,allergies,acid reflux,have memory loss,insomnia,chronic pain,headaches. have been working since i was fifteen years old.two of my doctors rheumatologist and orthopedic doctor is behind my disablity claim.cannot perform outside work and housework at same time.although i have been just diagnosed i believe i been had this for a while .ihave also have sinus trouble and take immunetherapy shots.am on 8 to ten medications.please reply.iam 36 have 3kids theirs not one day that ifeel good |
jeri williford (Unregistered Guest)
Unregistered guest
Rating: N/A
Votes: 0 (Vote!) | | Posted on Thursday, April 06, 2006 - 10:22 pm: |
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this is jeri williford again ialso wanted to add that my mother helps meto the degree she can wiyh my housework. my doctor has put me out of work and i have applied for my short term disability on my job. i also have long term disability. ialso suffer from exhaustion or chronic fatigue. ihave posted once before and did not get an answer as to whether you think i would be eligible or not. please reply |
Marvin (Marvin)
New member
Username: Marvin
Post Number: 2
Registered: 5-2006
Rating: N/A
Votes: 0 (Vote!) | | Posted on Friday, June 02, 2006 - 5:08 am: |
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Hello everyone,
Lets discuss on Fibromyalgia....
Fibromyalgia is a medical syndrome that causes widespread pain and stiffness in the muscles and joints as well as sleeps problems and chronic daytime fatigue. The most common sites of pain include the neck, back, shoulders, pelvic girdle and hands, but any body part can be involved.
Fibromyalgia patients experience a series of fibromyalgia symptoms of varying intensities that wax and wane over time. For people with fibromyalgia, the combination of pain and sleep disturbance is a double-edged sword: the pain makes sleep more hard and sleep deprivation exacerbates pain.
The good news is that reduction in sleep disturbance is usually followed by improvement in pain symptoms. This also highlights the importance of healthy sleep and access to sleep specialists in treating this disease.
Some more useful resource to help you out from Fibro
http://www.sleepdisordersguide.com/fibromyalgia-overview.html
I will be waiting for your helpful replies thank you,
Regards,
Marvin |
JoJo Masquera
Rating: N/A
Votes: 0 (Vote!) | | Posted on Friday, June 04, 2004 - 2:28 pm: |
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I am a teacher 59 years old I have varioue illnesses cushuing and
fibromyager. I have been let go from my teaching job . Can I apply for
permanent disabilitiy and if so about how much can I expect each month
for my expenses. |
Paul McChesney (Admin)
Board Administrator
Username: Admin
Post Number: 733
Registered: 5-2004
Rating: N/A
Votes: 0 (Vote!) | | Posted on Thursday, July 22, 2004 - 4:48 am: |
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JoJo,
as to whether you might win a Social Security disability case, it is
impossible to say. Assuming that you have Cushing's disease and
fibromyalgia, each disease might be at a severe level, or might be
causing minor problems. The crucial questions are whether you can
perform your old job, whether you can perform any other work.
How
much you might get depends on how much you have put in to the system,
but for Social Security disability, very roughly you get what you would
get if you suddenly became 65 and could retire.
For SSI, it
varies by state to some extent, but very roughly a figure starting at a
little less than $600 a month as of 2004, going down as income in your
household goes up.
There is also the possibility of short and long term disability.
You really need to sit down and talk to a local attorney to see what your chances are. |
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