Social Security Disability Insurance for Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome
Ehlers-Danlos syndrome “EDS” describes a few genetic (typically caused by a genetic mutation) conditions that cause a number of problems. The mutation is usually found in the genetic code that regulates the body’s collagen, which is responsible for connective tissue in the joints and throughout the body.
Because the disease attacks these connective tissues, individuals with EDS can suffer with a range of symptoms, including muscle pain; easy bruising, fatigue, hyper-flexibility, dislocations, complications to the heart, and other system symptoms that can be mildly bothersome, or life-threatening.
Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome and Social Security Disability/ LTD Disability Insurance Applications
Unfortunately, EDS is often misunderstood and dismissed by disability judges and insurance companies. One challenge is establishing the severity of impairment since Ehlers-Danlos can vary so greatly (including in the same person over time).
The disabling symptoms usually center on pain and other subjective effects of the objective clinical disease. This means that presenting with a credible and clear description of these symptoms through testimony, and developing expert medical opinion evidence to tie Ehlers-Danlos disability symptoms. Finding an advocate with the experience to present a case can be critical in a case with a poorly understood disorder like Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome.
Other considerations may include proving disability through other impacted systems or body areas. For example, if the primary symptoms impact the heart tissue, or vascular system, disability can be equated to other diagnoses that impact those areas. The same is true for disabilities based on joint or musculoskeletal dysfunction.
There are no shortcuts for proving a disability claim based on Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome. A long-term disability insurance company or the Social Security Administration will look to minimize debilitating symptoms if they are difficult to quantify or don’t fall neatly into a standard list of limitations in sitting, standing, lifting or carrying.
You can obtain disability benefits for Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome
It may not be easy, and it will definitely not happen without significant leg-work, but long term disability claims can be approved for Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome. Because it is not enough to simply provide medical records and a statement explaining your symptoms, finding a disability attorney who can help you prepare your case can have a significant impact. Disability lawyers with knowledge of Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome generally charge modest and affordable fees. Almost all attorneys who do this work will offer a no obligation and no cost evaluation of your claim. This is not just to help an attorney find out if they want to help you, but is part of a conversation to figure out if they’re a good fit for what you need as well. Take advantage of a claim evaluation, and don’t hesitate to discuss fees, costs, and strategy. To speak with a member of our team, call us today at 856-795-8880 or contact us online.