Musculoskeletal System Disorders

How does the Social Security Administration (SSA) describe a Musculoskeletal System Disorder?

The SSA describes musculoskeletal impairment as the inability to walk or move around effectively on a continued basis. This includes:

• Any pain associated with the impairment
• Inability to perform fine and gross movements effectively

The duration of the musculoskeletal systems disorder must have lasted for at least a 12 month period or is expected to last for at least 12 months.

How does the SSA evaluate a Musculoskeletal System Disorder?

The SSA will determine whether an individual can essentially move or is able to perform fine and gross motor skills effectively based on the medical evidence.

What are some categories of Musculoskeletal System Disorders?

The following categories of musculoskeletal system disorders are described more in depth on the SSA’s website:

• Major dysfunction of joint(s):
  • Subluxation
  • Contracture
  • Bony or fibrous ankylosis
  • Instability
• Reconstructive surgery or surgical arthrodesis of a major weight-bearing joint
• Disorders of the spine:
  • Herniated nucleus pulposus
  • Spinal arachnoiditis
  • Spinal stenosis
  • Osteoarthritis
  • Degenerative disc disease
  • Facet arthritis
  • Vertebral fracture
• Amputation
• Fracture of the femur, tibia, pelvis, or one or more of the tarsal bones
• Fracture of an upper extremity
• Soft tissue injury:
  • Burns

Can you provide me a list of Disabilities and Impairments that would qualify me for SSDI or SSI?

This is a partial list of disabilities and impairments that may qualify you for receiving SSDI or SSI benefits. This is not a complete list. Please contact Scott D. Lewis to determine whether your impairment may qualify.

• Musculoskeletal System Disorders
• Special Senses & Speech Disorders
• Respiratory System Disorders
• Cardiovascular System Disorders
• Digestive System Disorders
• Genitourinary System Disorders
• Hematological Disorders
• Skin Disorders
• Endocrine System Disorders
• Impairments that Affect Multiple Body Systems
• Neurological Disorders
• Mental Disorders
• Malignant Neoplastic Diseases
• Immune System Disorders

Social Security Disability Claims Representation:

• Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI)
• Supplemental Security Insurance (SSI)
• Initial Claims
• Denied Claims
• Request for Reconsideration
• Request for a Hearing
• Disabled Child Benefits

For more specific information about Social Security claims law, visit the information pages on this website:

• Qualifying Disabilities and Impairments