Is Fibromyalgia a Disability?

The Social Security Administration does not specifically list fibromyalgia as a disability. However, you could still qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and/or Supplemental Security Income (SSI). 

Working with a Pittsburgh Social Security disability lawyer provides you with a strong resource who can help you better understand your eligibility, file a more complete claim, and fight a denial when necessary. 

How Does the Social Security Administration View Fibromyalgia in Pittsburgh?

Fibromyalgia is frequently misunderstood, even by doctors and other healthcare professionals. It is a complex condition that causes a wide range of symptoms of varying severity. This could include pain, fatigue, and cognitive difficulties. 

Many who live with this condition may wonder if it is a disability and if they might qualify for disability benefits based on their diagnosis. The answer is that it depends. While the Social Security Administration does not list fibromyalgia as a specific impairment in the Blue Book, many with the condition may still qualify to receive disability benefits. 

Qualifying for Social Security Disability Based on Fibromyalgia

The Social Security Administration publishes the Blue Book to list all the impairments that might qualify you for disability benefits based on your diagnosis and test results. While fibromyalgia is not explicitly listed, some symptoms of the condition may be severe enough to meet the criteria included in other impairment listings. 

For example, you might qualify if you meet the criteria listed under: 

• Inflammatory arthritis for fibromyalgia symptoms similar to arthritis-related conditions
• Neurological disorders, if cognitive dysfunction, known as “fibro fog,” is severe
• Somatic symptom disorders, if your fibromyalgia significantly affects your mental health

You could also qualify if your fibromyalgia causes serious enough of a disability that you cannot work your job and earn a living. To receive disability approval, your residual functional capacity (RFC) will need to show that you have a disability that prevents you from working your job or other jobs you might be qualified to work.

To improve your chances of disability approval, your medical records should provide detailed documentation of your symptoms, medical treatment history, and functional limitations. The representative from Disability Determination Services who reviews your claim will contact your doctors and review your records. 

Understanding How to Prove Your Fibromyalgia Disability Using Your Residual Functional Capacity

Many may need to show that their fibromyalgia qualifies as a disability based on their residual functional capacity. This requires documenting how your symptoms limit your ability to perform work-related tasks or attend work regularly. 

Without a specific impairment listing for fibromyalgia, your RFC may be crucial to proving your case. To ensure you have the strongest case possible, you will undergo a thorough RFC assessment. Your doctor will complete an RFC form outlining specific limitations due to fibromyalgia. Some of the things the Social Security disability examiner will look for on this form are: 

• How long you can sit, stand, walk, or manage manual tasks
• Other physical limitations
• Your ability to concentrate, remember, and follow instructions
• Other mental limitations
• How your pain affects your ability to work normal shifts on a normal schedule
• How your pain and fatigue affect you otherwise

In addition to your RFC form, your medical file should have strong medical evidence to support your claim. This includes: 

• Your fibromyalgia diagnosis and supporting test results
• Detailed doctor’s notes, treatment history, medication, and any side effects
• Opinions and records from rheumatologists, pain management doctors, neurologists, and other specialists
• Documentation of pain and fatigue documentation, including the frequency and duration of your flare-ups 

What Social Security Disability Benefits Might be Available for Fibromyalgia?

If fibromyalgia prevents you from working, you may be eligible for Social Security Disability benefits through one or both of these programs:

Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI)

This program is available to individuals with a sufficient work history who have paid Social Security taxes. Earned income above the substantial gainful activity limit will prevent you from receiving approval for benefits.

Supplemental Security Income (SSI)

SSI is a needs-based program for those with limited income and resources. You must meet strict income and asset limits to receive SSI.

How an Attorney Can Help if Your Fibromyalgia Disability Claim is Denied

Many fibromyalgia-related disability claims are initially denied due to a lack of medical evidence or other causes. It can be challenging to get approved for disability based on your initial application, even if you have a condition that is included in the Blue Book. 

If you receive a denial, you want a disability attorney on your side. They can file your appeal and represent you throughout the process, including reconsideration and hearings before an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ). 

Handling the disability claims process and appealing a denial can be overwhelming, especially with an invisible illness like fibromyalgia. Having an attorney on your side can help present your case effectively and improve your chances of approval.

How Much will a Fibromyalgia Disability Lawyer Cost?

Our Security Disability lawyers represent clients based on contingency. We do not charge any attorney’s fees upfront and are only paid from the backpay you receive when you get approved for SSDI or SSI. 

You will not need to worry about paying us until we secure compensation for you. If you do not get paid, neither do we.

Talk to a Team Member About Your Fibromyalgia Disability Claim for Free

If you or a loved one is struggling with fibromyalgia and unable to work, contact Berger and Green Attorneys today to discuss your options. We help individuals file their claims and appeal denials in Pennsylvania and Ohio. We can assess your options and discuss how your fibromalgia keeps you from working. Contact us and let our team evaluate your options and explain how we can help today.