Is Cervical Radiculopathy a Disability? How To Get Benefits
The Social Security Administration (SSA) does not explicitly list cervical radiculopathy in its Blue Book of qualifying conditions; however, if your symptoms are severe enough to limit your ability to work or manage daily life, then you may still qualify for benefits.
What Is Cervical Radiculopathy?
Cervical radiculopathy, often called a "pinched nerve," is a condition that occurs when a nerve in the neck becomes compressed or irritated. It is typically the result of a bone spur, herniated disc, degenerative disc disease, or other changes in the spine.
The affected nerve roots extend from the cervical spine (the upper part of the spinal cord) and travel down the neck into the shoulders, arms, and hands.
The nerve compression can cause a range of physical symptoms that make it difficult to perform basic activities, especially those involving arm or neck movement.
While some cases are mild and can resolve on their own or with treatment, more severe cases can become chronic and disabling.
Common Symptoms of Cervical Radiculopathy
Symptoms of cervical radiculopathy can vary depending on which nerve is affected and how severe the compression is.
For some individuals, the symptoms are intermittent, while for others, they are constant and progressive.
Over time, these symptoms can make it difficult to perform everyday tasks, such as typing, writing, cooking, driving, or even getting dressed.
Common symptoms include:
Neck pain or back pain, often radiating into the shoulder or arm
Numbness or loss of sensation in the arms, hands, or fingers
Muscle weakness in the upper extremities
Loss of coordination or dexterity in the hands
Headaches that start at the base of the skull
Pain that worsens with specific movements, such as turning your head or lifting objects
Treatment Options for Cervical Radiculopathy
Many people with cervical radiculopathy respond well to treatments, especially in the early stages. However, more advanced or persistent cases may require long-term care or even surgery.
Common treatment options include:
Medications: Pain medication, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), corticosteroids, or muscle relaxants to reduce inflammation and relieve pain.
Physical therapy: Stretching and strengthening exercises designed to alleviate nerve pressure and improve mobility.
Cervical traction: A technique used to stretch the neck and reduce nerve compression gently.
Epidural steroidal injections: These can reduce inflammation and relieve symptoms.
Surgery: In cases where other treatments fail, procedures like discectomy or spinal fusion may be necessary to decompress the affected nerve.
If your condition does not improve with treatment and you are still unable to work, then you may be able to qualify for disability benefits.
Can You Get Disability Benefits for Cervical Radiculopathy?
The SSA doesn't specifically list cervical radiculopathy as a disability. However, individuals with the condition may still qualify if their symptoms meet specific medical criteria.
Most people with cervical radiculopathy are evaluated under Section 1.15 of the Blue Book, which covers disorders of the skeletal spine resulting in nerve root compression.
To qualify, you'll need to prove that nerve compression is causing significant and ongoing limitations on your ability to function and perform basic daily activities. This could include a limited range of motion, loss of muscle strength, or changes in sensory and reflex function.
If you don't meet the criteria outlined in the SSA's listings, then you may still qualify under a medical-vocational allowance. This accounts for your age, work history, education, and Residual Functional Capacity (RFC).
Criteria for Getting Disability Benefits With Cervical Radiculopathy
To receive disability benefits, the SSA will evaluate whether your condition meets its definition of disability. This means proving that your cervical radiculopathy:
Has lasted or is expected to last at least 12 months
Prevents you from performing Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA)
Is supported by strong medical evidence
Here are the key factors that the SSA will consider:
Severity of symptoms: Your records must show persistent, severe symptoms affecting sitting, standing, walking, lifting, reaching, grasping, fine motor tasks, or maintaining concentration due to severe pain.
Functional limitations: The SSA may require a Residual Functional Capacity (RFC) assessment to evaluate your ability to perform basic work tasks. If your RFC shows that you can't perform your past work or other types of work, then you may be approved for benefits.
Failed treatment attempts: If you've tried medications, physical therapy, injections, or even surgery, and your symptoms have not improved significantly, then this can help support your claim. Be sure to document all treatments you received, how long you tried each treatment, and why the treatment was ineffective or partially effective.
Medical evidence required: The SSA relies heavily on medical documentation. Be sure your file includes a formal diagnosis, MRI or CT scan results, EMG or nerve conduction studies, treatment notes, and a detailed symptom history.
Non-medical evidence: To build a stronger case, you can also include non-medical evidence such as written statements from friends and family, employer documentation, and your own personal narrative.
How to Apply for Disability Benefits
Applying for SSDI or SSI involves multiple steps, and paying close attention to detail is crucial. Here's how to get started:
Gather documentation: Collect all your medical records, test results, treatment history, work history, and any non-medical supporting data.
Complete the application: You can apply online through the SSA's website, via the phone, or in person at your local Social Security office.
Submit supporting evidence: Include everything that demonstrates how your condition affects your ability to function. This includes RFC assessments, personal statements, and third-party observations.
Respond to SSA's requests: The SSA may request additional documentation or schedule a consultative exam with a doctor they choose. Be sure to attend and provide any additional information promptly.
Await a decision: It can take several months to receive a decision. If your application is denied, don't panic. You have the right to an appeal and can submit additional evidence.
Get Help With Your Disability Claim
Cervical radiculopathy is a medical condition that can be painful, exhausting, and disruptive to your daily life and career. Unfortunately, navigating the Social Security disability system isn't always easy—especially when your condition isn't directly listed as a qualifying impairment.
That's where legal support can make a big difference. An experienced disability attorney can:
Help you gather and organize the proper medical evidence
Ensure your application is complete and accurate
Represent you in appeals if your initial claim is denied
Improve your chances of success at every step of the process
At Impact Disability Law, we understand how frustrating it can be to live with cervical radiculopathy—and how challenging the disability claims process can be. If you're ready to take the next step, contact us for a free consultation. We are here to help you get the benefits you need and deserve.
Learn More About Other Conditions
| Atrial Fibrillation | Emphysema |
| Cervical Radiculopathy | Occipital Neuralgia |
| Chiari Malformation | Spondylolisthesis |
| Chronic Venous Insufficiency | Trigeminal Neuralgia |
| Dystonia |