Clear & Honest Answers
To Questions About Your Social Security Disability Insurance and Supplemental Security Income Benefits

Attorney Shawn Taylor

Is a chronic pain disorder keeping you from working?

On Behalf of | May 14, 2018 | Firm News |

West Virginia readers know that certain medical conditions and types of injuries could keep them from working and earning a living. Some of the most debilitating types of injuries are not visible, yet they can rob you of your ability to do the same job you did in the past.

If you are physically limited by an unseen medical condition, you still may have a rightful claim to disability benefits. You may have grounds to move forward with your pursuit of financial support if you are dealing with a chronic inflammation or pain disorder, such as fibromyalgia. You might find it beneficial to take steps to learn about your rights and legal options.

How does this illness affect you?

Fibromyalgia is a physical disorder that many people misunderstand and dismiss. It may have no outward signs or symptoms, but it is a very real and very painful disorder. It involves widespread pain of the muscle and skeletal systems. People who have this disease often experience the following symptoms:

  • Sleep issues
  • Memory problems
  • Fatigue
  • Mood swings

These are just some of the ways this disease can impact your quality of life and your ability to hold gainful employment. Medical experts are still learning about this disease, but many believe that it affects the way your brain processes pain. This means you could experience extreme pain and discomfort for extended amounts of time with little to no relief.

In addition to widespread pain, many people find that fibromyalgia leads to cognitive difficulties. This means you may struggle doing your work because you have “brain fog,” difficulty focusing and a lessened ability to concentrate on your tasks. If the impact of your disease has taken a financial toll because you can no longer work in the same capacity, you could pursue disability benefits from the Social Security Administration.

Your right to financial support

If you have cause to seek disability benefits, you have no time to lose in pursuing the support you deserve. The claims process can be lengthy and complex, but you can seek help as you navigate each step.

Suffering from fibromyalgia can negatively impact various areas of your life, so you may find it beneficial to first seek a complete evaluation of your case. This simple step can help you understand what options could be available to you and how to move forward with a claim.