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Peripheral artery disease (PAD) is a serious condition. A diagnosis can mean that going back to work is not possible.
You must meet Social Security Disability’s specific requirements to receive coverage. That is not always as easy as it seems. Here is what you need to know about peripheral artery disease disability benefits.
What Is Peripheral Artery Disease?
PAD is a circulatory condition. Fatty deposits build up along the interior walls of the arteries. This reduces the amount of blood that flows through them. It can cause severe pain and limitations on movement.
People with PAD typically do not get enough oxygen-rich blood flow to their arms or legs. The condition can worsen without treatment. It is possible to suffer severe problems if the condition continues. This could include critical limb ischemia. That means blood flow to the impacted limb is cut off. PAD can lead to limitations on healing, movement, infections, tissue damage, and gangrene. Amputation can result if treatment is ineffective.
PAD also limits mobility. That makes it difficult for you to perform certain types of work. Jobs involving standing, walking, and physical labor tend to be too challenging.
Social Security Disability with PAD
A diagnosis of PAD could mean you qualify for Social Security disability. This depends on the symptoms and complications you have. Two benefit types could be possible:
- Social Security Disability Insurance is typically available. This is as long as you have contributed to Social Security during your work years. However, your condition no longer allows you to continue working.
- Supplemental Security Income benefits if you have very low or no income. This is typically children or elderly people.
The most common form of disability for those with PAD is SSDI. You may be eligible to receive monthly payments if you qualify for SSDI for PAD.
How a PAD Disability Claim Is Measured
SSA’s listing 4.12 provides clarification. Clarification on when a person may receive disability with a PAD diagnosis. Most people with PAD will have many tests completed to diagnose them. Care and treatment plans also follow these test results. SSA uses them to determine the extent of your injuries.
SSA will use medically acceptable imaging to determine if you meet the qualifications. This could happen if you meet the following requirements:
- Resting ankle/brachial systolic blood pressure ratio of less than 0.50
- Reduced systolic blood pressure at the ankle during exercise. Exercise at 50% or more of the pre-exercise level applies. This test requires 10 minutes or more to return to the pre-exercise level.
- Resting toe systolic pressure of under 30 mm Hg.
- Resting toe/brachial systolic blood pressure ratio of under 0.40.
Meeting these requirements typically means you qualify for SSA disability for PAD. However, other factors could play a role in this as well.
Meeting SSA’s PAD Disability Requirements in Other Ways
Test numbers do not always provide the full scope of your condition. You can apply for SSDI coverage if you can show your symptoms are severe. The SSA’s rules take into consideration numerous factors, such as:
- Your age
- Your work history
- Any other medical conditions you have
- The severity of your symptoms
- Your education and skills
This information enables the SSA to determine your residual functional capacity (RFC). The administration uses all of the information from your application for this.
Here is an example. You have PAD, but do not meet the testing requirements under the SSA PAD listing. Your job requires a significant amount of lifting and physical activity. Those tasks are impossible for you because of PAD in your arms. These symptoms may make it possible to qualify for disability.
A person with the same conditions and symptoms who does a desk job may not qualify. Their job is not dependent on their ability to lift.
You must demonstrate a connection between your actions and the limitations you face. These statements from you are critical. They determine what your limits are. Most jobs require some lifting. That includes desk jobs. Clearly communicate this on your Work History form. Be sure you clearly outline how PAD impacts your job.
Your doctor’s statements can be helpful to your claim as well. Your doctor may explain the specific limitations you have. This includes outlining what they saw during your examination. Your doctor’s opinion could be critical in cases where you have more than one medical condition. This is an area your attorney will help you clarify.
Medical Experts and PAD Claims
Medical testing and your statements are the foundation of your claim. SSA will also talk to medical experts who can provide more clarity.
The SSA may call on medical professionals to explain your condition to a judge. These professionals can demonstrate whether your medical condition is disabling. Your attorney may also request a medical expert to testify.
The judge in an SSA hearing appoints the medical expert. This is not your doctor. You likely have never met the doctor who is at your hearing. Their job is to provide unbiased information to the court.
Hiring a Disability Attorney Could Be Critical
Symptoms of PAD may be more severe than what your tests reveal. That can be frustrating to you. You know how hard it is to do your job.
Communicate this information clearly with the help of a Social Security Disability attorney. This could help you prove your case. Your lawyer will help you with statements on your Work History. That includes outlining the reality of your situation. This clarity can enhance your claim.
PAD for disability is possible. It is up to you to clearly document your limitations. Having an attorney to assist you can make a significant difference.
Set Up a Consultation to Learn More About What We Can Do to Help You
Contact Pond Lehocky Disability for help securing SSDI benefits. Our attorneys have extensive experience navigating complex medical conditions to achieve results.
Set up a consultation now to learn how PAD disability claims can be successful. Our compassionate team is ready to review your case and help you apply for SSD benefits or appeal the SSA’s decision.
