Can I Get Disability for Muscular Dystrophy?

If you have been diagnosed with muscular dystrophy and are unable to work in any capacity, you may qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits.

Social Security Listing 11.13

Muscular dystrophy is included in the Social Security Administration’s Blue Book of disability listings, under Listing 11.13.

Under listing 11.13, you are found disabled by Social Security if you are diagnosed with muscular dystrophy and have medical evidence of disorganization of your motor function in two extremities that results in an extreme limitation in the ability to: stand up from a seated position, balance while standing or walking, or use your upper extremities.

Alternatively, if you are diagnosed with muscular dystrophy and have a marked limitation in your physical functioning and one of the following mental areas of mental functioning, you may meet the listing: (1) understanding, remembering, and applying information; (2) interacting with others; (3) concentrating, persisting, or maintaining pace; or (4) adapting or managing oneself.

I Don’t Meet the Listing!

If you do not meet the listing, you may still qualify for SSDI or SSI benefits. To prove that you are disabled and unable to work, you will need medical evidence that shows the severity of your impairment. Social Security will need reliable medical evidence from your doctors to show them that your condition limits you and prevents you from working.

Unfortunately, one of the most common reasons for a denial is not enough medical evidence. It is important that you keep a log of all doctors, hospitals, and clinics you have seen for your condition, including any inpatient stays or hospitalizations. It is also important that your doctors are supportive of your claim for benefits and properly document your condition in your medical records.

If you do not meet the listing, Social Security will consider your residual functional capacity (RFC). Your RFC outlines your job restrictions and will be used to determine if you can go back to your past work. Your RFC is also used to determine whether there is other work available for you.

Jacksonville Social Security Disability Attorney

If you have been diagnosed with muscular dystrophy and are unable to work in any capacity due to your physical condition, contact a local attorney today. An attorney can help answer your questions or help you apply for disability.