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Obtaining SSDI benefits for traumatic brain injury

On Behalf of | Feb 2, 2017 | Social Security Disability

A traumatic brain injury can be devastating. Among the effects caused by a brain injury are loss of sensory perception, loss or interference with the ability to speak, and loss of memory and interference with cognitive processes. Missourians who have suffered a traumatic brain injury may be eligible for Social Security Disability Benefits if they can submit medical and employment records that document the nature of the injury and its effect on their ability to perform work functions.

A successful SSD claim for a traumatic brain injury requires documented medical evidence of the effects of the injury. Qualifying effects fall into two categories. The first is disorganization of motor function in two extremities (both arms, both legs or one of each) that results in “extreme limitation” in the ability to stand from a seated position, maintain balance while standing or walking or use of the arms, hands, wrists and fingers. “Extreme limitation” means the complete inability to do any of the listed functions.

The second category of effects requires marked limitation in physical functioning and one of the three: understanding, remembering or applying information, interacting with others, or concentrating or managing oneself. While the SSA does not have an official scale of the degrees of limitation in physical activities, marked limitation ranks just below extreme limitation.

Given the types of physical and mental limitations associated with traumatic brain injury, the services of an attorney who handles such claims may be important to the success of a claim for Social Security disability benefits. A knowledgeable attorney can assist in gathering medical and employment information and also provide advice on the chances of a successful outcome.

Source: Social Security Administration, “Disability Evaluation Under Social Security,” accessed on Jan. 28, 2017

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