Qualifying for Disability With PAD
To qualify for Social Security Disability (SSD) benefits with PAD, you must show that your condition:
- Prevents you from performing Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA)
- Is expected to last at least 12 months
- Meets the SSA’s strict medical criteria for this impairment
Regardless of the diagnosis, every SSDI or SSI applicant must meet these basic requirements. If your PAD symptoms match the SSA’s disability listing or limit your functional abilities severely enough, you may qualify for benefits.
Blue Book Criteria for Peripheral Artery Disease
The SSA references the Blue Book, a guide of qualifying medical conditions, when reviewing disability claims. The SSA evaluates PAD under listing 4.12, Peripheral arterial disease. To satisfy this listing, you must meet the associated medical criteria. This includes:
- Medical imaging results of PAD causing intermittent claudication, AND
- Objective evidence of arterial insufficiency (reduced blood flow/blood pressure) demonstrated by test results (as described in the listing). These can include tests for:
- Resting ankle/brachial systolic blood pressure
- Systolic blood pressure at the ankle on exercise
- Resting toe systolic pressure
- Resting toe/brachial systolic blood pressure
If you meet the criteria of listing 4.12 and you’re unable to work, you should be approved for benefits.
Medical-Vocational Allowance
If you don’t exactly meet the Blue Book listing, you may still qualify under a Medical-Vocational Allowance. This involves a Residual Functional Capacity (RFC) assessment. The SSA will evaluate what tasks you’re still able to perform despite your condition. They will take into consideration things like:
- Your ability to walk, stand, or climb
- Your endurance and speed
- How pain affects your concentration
- Your age, education, and work background
- How often do you need to rest
- Side effects of medications or treatments
Even moderate PAD can prevent people, especially older workers, from sustaining full-time employment.
How PAD Affects Your Work Capabilities
Peripheral artery disease is a progressive condition that interferes with basic mobility. Symptoms can vary, but many people experience:
- Cramping in the legs with walking or standing (claudication)
- Numbness, tingling, or weakness
- Cold legs or feet
- Slow-healing wounds or ulcers
- Skin discoloration
- Pain at rest
- Reduced walking speed or limited endurance
Because PAD restricts blood flow, even simple tasks like walking across a room, climbing stairs, or standing at a workbench can become exhausting or painful. Many individuals also face complications such as infections, nerve damage, or tissue loss requiring hospitalization. When PAD limits your movement or causes persistent pain, maintaining full-time employment can be impossible.
Qualifying Evidence
Strong, consistent medical documentation is critical to winning disability benefits for peripheral artery disease. Evidence often includes:
- Overall medical history
- Blood test results
- Ultrasound findings
- Angiography reports
- Ankle Brachial Index (ABI) results
- Treadmill exercise test results
- Medication history and treatment attempts
- Wound care documentation
- Documentation of progressive symptoms over time
- Physicians’ notes
- Surgical or stent placement records
The SSA wants to see ongoing medical treatment, clear diagnostic evidence, and records that show your limitations despite treatment.
