Disability Insurance Claim for Back Pain

Many people file disability insurance claims due to debilitating back pain that prevents them from working. However, these claims are frequently denied by insurance companies, as proving the level of pain you experience can be challenging. It is important that you discuss your claim and the evidence you need with a Chicago disability insurance claim attorney right away. 

Types of Disabling Back Conditions

An Illinois long-term disability insurance attorney can help you determine whether your back condition and diagnosis fall into certain categories. Generally, your diagnosis must include one of the following:

• Nerve root compression, which can include:
  • Herniated discs (slipped or prolapsed disc)
  • Degenerative disc disease
  • Osteoarthritis (degenerative arthritis)
  • Facet arthritis
  • Vertebral fracture
  • Radiating spinal pain
• Arachnoiditis – a pain disorder caused by inflammation of the membranes that surround and protect the nerves of the spinal cord
• Stenosis – a narrowing of the spaces within the spine, which can put pressure on the nerves in the spinal cord; it is a wear and tear condition, often caused by osteoarthritis. It usually occurs in the lower spine but may also occur in the neck. 

Once you have established one of the accepted conditions, you must show the effects that the condition is having on you, and objective medical evidence is required. For this reason, one of the things the insurer will look at is the number and frequency of your medical visits and treatments. 

A solid, lengthy medical record, including the doctor’s notes, will be very helpful to your claim and establishing that you suffered from one or more of the following: 

• Nerve root compression/pain
• Loss of sensation/reflexes
• Limited movement of the spine
• Motor loss/muscle weakness
• Difficulty walking
• Chronic pain associated with compression of the lumbar spine

Private Long-Term Disability for Back Pain

If your chronic back pain is making it impossible for you to perform the essential duties of your job, then you may qualify for long-term disability (LTD) coverage. Because back pain is so common and diagnosing its cause is so difficult, insurance companies are often reluctant to grant LTD for chronic back pain. They may claim that your pain does not prevent your working or that you are exaggerating your pain in seeking insurance. 

To bolster your claim, make sure you have been and are still working with your doctor and following all medical instructions. If your condition and inability to work are causing depression, be sure to treat and document that condition as well. If the company denies your claim, as usually happens, consider working with an LTD attorney in Illinois to appeal your decision. Better yet, work with an Illinois LTD attorney before you file at all. 

How an Illinois Disability Insurance Attorney Can Help You Get Benefits

Applying for LTD benefits can be a very complicated process, especially with a disability like back pain.  Nearly two-thirds of initial SSDI applications are denied. An Illinois disability insurance attorney may be able to help you to find your application among that other third.  Contact us today and let us evaluate your case and the likelihood of success of your application.