Is Spondylolisthesis a Disability? How to Get Benefits
Spondylolisthesis can be considered a disability if it severely limits your ability to work and perform daily activities. While the Social Security Administration (SSA) does not have a specific listing for spondylolisthesis, you can still qualify for Social Security disability benefits if your condition meets the criteria for spinal disorders or nerve-related impairments.
What is Spondylolisthesis?
Spondylolisthesis is a spinal condition where one vertebra in your spine slips out of place and rests on the vertebra below it. This can cause pain, numbness, and mobility issues, depending on how severe the slippage is. It often occurs in the lower back (lumbar spine) and can be caused by congenital disorders, aging, injury, or overuse.
Types of Spondylolisthesis
There are several different types of spondylolisthesis, and the most common include:
Degenerative Spondylolisthesis: This is the most common form and occurs due to aging and wear and tear on the spine.
Congenital Spondylolisthesis: This is present at birth due to improper spine formation.
Isthmic Spondylolisthesis: This is caused by a small fracture in part of the vertebra.
Traumatic Spondylolisthesis: This results from an injury that forces the vertebra out of place.
Pathologic Spondylolisthesis: This is due to disease or infection weakening the spine.
Common Symptoms
The severity of spondylolisthesis varies from person to person. Some people experience mild discomfort, while others suffer from severe pain and mobility issues. Common symptoms include:
Lower back pain
Neck pain
Stiffness in the back and legs
Sensory loss or tingling in the legs
Weakness in the legs
Difficulty walking or standing for long periods
Muscle spasms
Loss of bladder or bowel control (in severe cases)
Treatment Options
Non-Surgical Treatments
Doctors typically start a treatment plan for mild to moderate cases with non-surgical approaches to manage pain and improve mobility.
Physical Therapy
Physical therapy focuses on strengthening the muscles around the spine to reduce stress on the affected vertebrae. A therapist can guide you through stretches and exercises to improve flexibility and posture.
Medications
Pain management with this condition is key. Doctors may prescribe:
Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen
Muscle relaxants to reduce spasms
Nerve pain medications like gabapentin
Steroid injections for inflammation relief
Bracing
Another treatment option is braces. A back brace may be recommended, especially for younger patients, to stabilize their spine and prevent further slippage.
Surgical Treatments
If conservative treatment methods fail to provide relief, then surgery may be necessary. The goal of surgery is to stabilize the spine, relieve pain, and prevent further nerve damage.
Types of Surgery
Spinal fusion: This is the most common surgical procedure for spondylolisthesis, fusing two or more vertebrae to prevent movement.
Laminectomy: This procedure removes a portion of the vertebra to relieve pressure on the nerves.
Disc replacement: In some cases, a damaged disc can be replaced with an artificial one.
Recovery and Rehabilitation
Surgery is only a partial solution and recovery from surgery takes time. Patients who have surgery for spondylolisthesis usually require several weeks of rest, physical therapy, pain management, and lifestyle adjustments. Physical therapy helps with range of motion, mobility, and flexibility. Some of the adjustments may include avoiding heavy lifting in daily life.
Can You Get Disability Benefits for Spondylolisthesis?
The short answer is yes; however, it depends on how severe your condition is. The Social Security Administration (SSA) does not explicitly list spondylolisthesis in its Listing of Impairments. You may still qualify if your condition meets the spinal disorders or nerve damage criteria under Listing 1.15 (Disorders of the Spine) or Listing 1.16 (Lumbar Spinal Stenosis).
Criteria for Getting Disability Benefits With Spondylolisthesis
To qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI), you must prove that:
Your medical condition significantly limits your ability to work.
You have difficulty walking or standing for significant periods.
You experience chronic pain that does not improve with treatment.
You suffer from nerve-related issues, such as muscle weakness or numbness.
Your doctor has documented your condition with medical imaging (X-rays, MRI scans, or CT scans).
You must also prove that your condition has lasted or is expected to last 12 months.
Get Help With Your Disability Application
Applying for disability benefits can be overwhelming. Numerous first-time applicants face rejections due to inadequate medical documentation or small mistakes.
Working with an experienced disability lawyer can significantly increase the chances of your disability case getting approved. A lawyer can help gather and organize medical records, ensure all application forms are completed accurately, and provide representation during appeals if necessary.
At Impact Disability Law, we understand how challenging it can be to secure disability benefits for spondylolisthesis. Our experienced team is here to help guide you through every step of the process. Contact us today for a free case evaluation, and let us help you get the benefits you deserve.