Sciatica is a painful condition that’s often the result of an underlying issue that’s putting pressure on the sciatic nerve. Spinal stenosis and herniated discs are two of the more common medical conditions that can lead to sciatica.
A person who has sciatica can experience pain that radiates down the affected leg. Some people also experience numbness, tingling and muscle weakness. This can be manageable in many cases, but it’s also possible that the pain may be intense and uncontrollable.
When does sciatica become a disability?
Sciatica can be a disability if it’s so severely limiting that it prevents the person from being able to work. This limitation must last at least 12 months in order to qualify for benefits under the Social Security Disability Insurance program.
When the Social Security Administration is evaluating a case, it will look at how the condition affects the applicant. Sciatica-related claims are handled under the listing for disorders of the spine. This requires that nerve root compression is present and that there are clearly documented symptoms. Some of these noted symptoms include:
- Limited motion in the spine
- Muscle weakness
- Positive straight leg raise test
- Loss of sensation
The length of the condition and how treatments are impacting function are also considered. Even if all of the required listing criteria aren’t met, there’s a chance that the application may be approved based on a residual functional capacity assessment.
The application process for receiving disability benefits for sciatica can be lengthy and complex. It may be beneficial to work with someone who understands this process and can work with you, particularly if you face a denial of your application and need to launch an appeal.