Helping You Qualify
If you have a physical impairment that stops you from working, you may be eligible for Social Security Disability benefits. At Patrick J. Kelly Law Office, we help clients across California understand their rights, gather medical evidence, and navigate the Social Security Administration’s (SSA) complex application process.
If you’re struggling with a disability and need to file for benefits, contact our law firm for a free consultation. We’ll help you understand your eligibility.
What Is a Physical Impairment?
Many clients ask, “What is a physical impairment?” Under the SSA’s definition, a physical impairment is an anatomical or physiological condition that significantly limits your ability to perform basic work activities. It must be proven through medical evidence, not just symptoms, to qualify for benefits. It must also be expected to last at least 12 months or result in death.
Characteristics of a physical impairment can include:
- Difficulty standing, sitting, or walking for extended periods
- Reduced mobility or flexibility
- Chronic pain or fatigue
- Loss of strength or coordination
- Joint swelling
- Limited ability to lift, carry, or handle objects
- Muscle weakness and balance issues
These limitations can prevent you from engaging in what the SSA calls Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA). This is the level of earning capability that disqualifies someone from receiving disability benefits.
Types of Physical Impairments Recognized by the SSA
The SSA evaluates a wide range of impairments based on body systems, as outlined in the Blue Book (Listing of Impairments). Sections include:
- Musculoskeletal Disorders
- Special Senses and Speech
- Respiratory Disorders
- Cardiovascular System Disorders
- Digestive Disorders
- Genitourinary Disorders
- Hematological Disorders
- Skin Disorders
- Endocrine Disorders
- Congenital Disorders that Affect Multiple Body Systems
- Neurological Disorders
- Mental Disorders
- Cancer (Malignant Neoplastic Diseases)
- Immune System Disorders
Even if your condition is not specifically listed in the Blue Book, you may still qualify for benefits. Medical records and functional assessments must support the claim that you cannot work.
You may:
- Be eligible for benefits if your condition is “equal” in severity to a listed impairment
- Be eligible for a Medical-Vocational Allowance (if your impairment does not meet or equal a listing)
In assessing whether a claimant is eligible for a Medical-Vocational Allowance, the SSA evaluates factors such as age, previous work experience, educational background, transferable skills, and the nature of their disability. To gauge the claimant’s physical and mental limitations concerning job-related activities, the SSA will require a residual functional capacity (RFC) assessment.
How To Prove a Physical Impairment for Social Security Disability
To win a Social Security Disability claim, you’ll need supportive evidence and documentation. This can include:
- Medical records from licensed physicians and specialists
- Test results such as X-rays, MRIs, bloodwork, or other diagnostic assessments
- Detailed treatment history, including results and side effects from prescribed treatments
- Statements about how your condition affects your daily life and work capabilities
- Statements from coworkers, family, neighbors, etc., about how your disability impacts your daily activities
It’s important to provide the SSA with comprehensive evidence that highlights the true impact of your medical condition.
Why Work With a Disability Lawyer?
Applying for Social Security Disability with a physical impairment can be overwhelming. Attorney Patrick J. Kelly brings years of experience in Social Security Disability law to the table, guiding clients through:
- Initial applications
- Evidence gathering and submission
- Communicating with the SSA
- Appeals, if necessary, including hearings before Administrative Law Judges (ALJs)
We understand how to frame your case to meet SSA standards and fight for the benefits you deserve. Whether you have a mobility impairment or a neurological condition that affects motor skills, our legal team will help you obtain financial support.
We Handle a Variety of Claims
At Patrick J. Kelly Law Office, we represent clients with many types of physical disabilities and mental disorders. Learn more about some of the conditions we see that frequently push people to apply for benefits by visiting our impairment pages:
- Alzheimer’s and Dementia
- Anxiety
- Arthritis
- Asthma
- Back Pain
- Brain Injuries
- Cancer
- Crohn’s Disease, IBS, and Colitis
- Diabetes
- Fibromyalgia
- Eczema
- Heart Conditions
- HIV/AIDS
- Kidney Disease
- Lupus
- Medication Side Effects
- Multiple Sclerosis
- Musculoskeletal Disorders
- Chronic Pain
- BPD
- Substance Abuse
If your condition isn’t listed, that doesn’t mean you can’t seek and obtain benefits. Contact us to discuss your case today.
Get Help With Your Disability Claim
If you’re unable to work because of a physical impairment, don’t navigate the Social Security Disability claims process alone. Contact Patrick J. Kelly Law Office today for a free consultation. We’ll review your case, explain your options, and help you build the strongest claim possible! No fee is paid unless we win benefits for you.
