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Aug 23, 2021 · If you are suffering from the effects of Spinal stenosis you may qualify for disability benefits. The SSA has a specific disability listing for lumbar stenosis. If your condition meets the listing criteria, it will automatically be considered a disability. Call 512-454-4000 for …
What should be included in my medical records for spinal stenosis?
When spinal stenosis occurs, it is estimated that between 5% and 60% of the cases involve at least 2 levels of the spine, such as the cervical and lumbar regions (tandem stenosis). 1, 2 The signs, symptoms, and diagnosis of spinal stenosis, described on the next page, can vary greatly depending on the location and severity. References
What are the diagnostic criteria for lumbar spinal stenosis?
Jan 14, 2022 ·
Does the SSA Blue Book List cervical spinal stenosis?
What are the treatments for spinal stenosis?
Posterior Laminectomy and fusion. This surgery is done for severe stenosis, deformity, trauma, or tumors at multiple levels. It can be combined with anterior (through the front of the neck) procedures. A posterior cervical surgery is more extensive than an anterior procedure (e.g. an ACDF), so the recovery time is longer.
What are my options for spinal stenosis?
Are there different levels of spinal stenosis?
What is considered severe stenosis?
When spinal stenosis progresses to the severe stage, that means there has been substantial narrowing of the spinal canal. This can occur due to several different factors, but is most commonly caused by degeneration of the discs, vertebrae and spinal ligaments.Jul 8, 2015
Is spinal stenosis covered by Medicare?
What activities should be avoided with spinal stenosis?
- Avoid stretching in a standing position and extension stretches. ...
- Instead, try stretching while laying down. ...
- Avoid doing free weights. ...
- Instead, try using a weight machine. ...
- Avoid running and similar high-impact exercises. ...
- Instead, try swimming, cycling, or an elliptical machine.
Is walking good for spinal stenosis?
What is critical spinal stenosis?
What can make spinal stenosis worse?
Diet and exercise can be considered for patients that have spinal stenosis who are also overweight. Because additional fat in the body presses down on the spine and makes it support more weight, it aggravates spinal stenosis and may even lead to the condition developing.
What is the latest treatment for spinal stenosis?
Is the mild procedure covered by Medicare?
Will Medicare Part A pay for surgery?
Does Medicare pay for endoscopic spine surgery?
Why do doctors recommend surgery for spinal stenosis?
In severe cases of spinal stenosis, doctors may recommend surgery to create additional space for the spinal cord or nerves.
Where does cervical stenosis occur?
Cervical stenosis. In this condition, the narrowing occurs in the part of the spine in your neck.
Why does my spine tingle?
Symptoms can worsen over time. Spinal stenosis is most commonly caused by wear-and-tear changes in the spine related to osteoarthritis. In severe cases of spinal stenosis, doctors may recommend surgery to create additional space for the spinal cord or nerves.
Why do some people have a small spinal canal?
But most spinal stenosis occurs when something happens to narrow the open space within the spine. Causes of spinal stenosis may include: Overgrowth of bone.
What are the problems with herniated disks?
As your spine ages, it's more likely to experience bone spurs or herniated disks. These problems can reduce the amount of space available for your spinal cord and the nerves that branch off it.
What causes a spinal fracture?
Spinal injuries. Car accidents and other trauma can cause dislocations or fractures of one or more vertebrae. Displaced bone from a spinal fracture may damage the contents of the spinal canal. Swelling of nearby tissue immediately after back surgery also can put pressure on the spinal cord or nerves.
Can spinal stenosis occur at multiple levels?
Close. Multilevel spinal stenosis. Multilevel spinal stenosis. Spinal stenosis can occur at one level or multiples levels at the same time. Spinal stenosis is a narrowing of the spaces within your spine, which can put pressure on the nerves that travel through the spine. Spinal stenosis occurs most often in the lower back and the neck.
How to treat spinal stenosis?
Usually medications such as ibuprofen and acetaminophen are prescribed to relieve and manage pain. Injections of cortisone may help as well as physical therapy and exercises to build strength and maintain flexibility. Contact a Social Security disability attorney ...
How does spinal stenosis affect social security?
Instead, Social Security will conduct a Residual Functioning Capacity (RFC) assessment to evaluate how spinal stenosis affects your capacity to perform your job and daily activities. Social Security will review your imaging tests and doctor’s records, particularly their notes on your functional limitations, to decide if your spinal stenosis prevents you from working. Social Security will also consider your age, level of education, and work skills. If you are older than 55 with few transferable work skills and less education, your chances for being approved are greater. If you are suffering from cervical spinal stenosis, Social Security will evaluate your impairment in the same way.
What is the criteria for SSDI?
In order to be eligible for SSDI: The spinal stenosis must be in the lumbar region; The applicant must have an MRI or CT scan confirming spinal stenosis; The applicant must have chronic pain that does not radiate from a nerve; The applicant must have pain throughout the lower back, thighs, and buttocks; The applicant must have weakness in the lower ...
How does spinal stenosis affect the body?
Spinal stenosis occurs when the spaces between the vertebrae narrow, putting pressure on the vertebrae and nerves that run from the spine to the arms and legs. Any damage to the nerves, bones, or tissues surrounding the spinal cord can affect a person’s balance, walking, and sensation.
What tests are done to check for spinal stenosis?
They will also order a number of imaging tests, such as x-rays, MRIs, and CT scans, an electromyogram to check the health of spinal nerves and a bone scan to look for damage in the bones. Treatment typically includes pain medications, cortisone injections into the spine, and physical therapy. In severe cases, for example, if spinal stenosis affects an individual’s ability to walk, surgery may be recommended.
What is the spine made of?
The spine is made up of a column of bones called vertebrae that provide support for the upper body. Nerves run through the openings in the vertebrae, conducting signals from the brain to the rest of the body. Spinal stenosis occurs when the spaces between the vertebrae narrow, putting pressure on the vertebrae and nerves ...
How to contact a disability attorney for spinal stenosis?
Contact a Social Security disability attorney at 512-454-4000 for a free consultation and see if you can get disability benefits while suffering from Spinal Stenosis. If you have been denied disability don’t give up!
What is the term for a spinal nerve that is compressed before it reaches the intervertebral fora
Lateral recess stenosis occurs when the spinal nerve is compressed just before it reaches the intervertebral foramen.
What is the term for the narrowing of the foramina?
Foraminal Stenosis (Lateral Stenosis) The intervertebral foramen is the bony opening where a spinal nerve exits the spinal canal between two adjacent vertebrae. When one or more of these foramina narrows, it is called foraminal stenosis.
What are the two types of spinal stenosis?
The two general types of spinal stenosis are foraminal stenosis, also called lateral stenosis, which involves compression or inflammation of a spinal nerve; and central canal stenosis, which involves compression or inflammation of the spinal cord. advertisement.
What is the term for the bony opening where a spinal nerve exits the spinal canal between two adjacent vertebra
Foraminal Stenosis (Lateral Stenosis) The intervertebral foramen is the bony opening where a spinal nerve exits the spinal canal between two adjacent vertebrae. When one or more of these foramina narrows, it is called foraminal stenosis. With foraminal stenosis, the spinal nerve has less space and may become pinched, painful, and/or dysfunctional.
What is the name of the bony opening in the center of the vertebra that protects the spinal cord as it
Central Canal Stenosis. The vertebral foramen is the bony opening in the center of the vertebra that protects the spinal cord as it runs down the spinal canal. When one or more of these vertebral foramina narrow, it is called central canal stenosis.
Where does foraminal stenosis occur?
While foraminal stenosis can occur in any of the intervertebral foramina throughout the spine, it most commonly occurs in the lumbar spine . It can also occur in the cervical spine but rarely in the thoracic spine.
Is foraminal stenosis lateral recess?
In many cases of foraminal stenosis, some lateral recess stenosis or far lateral stenosis also occurs. On this website, foraminal stenosis is the umbrella term used for all of these types of lateral stenosis.
What is spinal stenosis?
By Bethany K. Laurence, Attorney. Spinal stenosis is a narrowing of the spinal canal in the cervical and lumbar regions of the spine, which can lead to compression of the spinal cord and nerves . In turn, this can lead to loss of deep tendon reflexes (DTR), muscle weakness in the legs, and numbness and pain in the back, buttocks, and legs.
How long can you walk with spinal stenosis?
You should ask your doctor to record how your pain, medication side effects, and other symptoms limit your ability to work, and what functional restrictions your doctor has placed on you (for example, no standing or walking for longer than two hours at a time). If you have been diagnosed with spinal stenosis, but you don't fulfill ...
How to apply for disability for back pain?
Call the SSA at 800-772-1213 to set up an appointment to fill out an application for disability benefits (SSDI and SSI). When you fill out your application, include both how your back pain and impairments to your back and/or legs affects your ability to work and how it affects your life outside of work. Include all back problems related to the stenosis, such as osteoarthritis or disc problems, as these can also help you qualify for disability. In addition, if you have both spinal stenosis and a mental impairment such as depression (as many people with back problems do), be sure to include symptoms and documentation of the mental impairment as well.
What is required for a SSA physical exam?
The SSA will request your medical records from your treating doctor. Your records should include an imaging test confirming a diagnosis of stenosis and a detailed physical exam, including testing your reflexes, sensation, muscle strength, muscle atrophy, and range of motion, as well as your ability to walk, bend, squat and rise.
Where is stenosis located?
The stenosis must be in your lumbar region .
Can you have both spinal stenosis and mental impairment?
In addition, if you have both spinal stenosis and a mental impairment such as depression (as many people with back problems do), be sure to include symptoms and documentation of the mental impairment as well.
Can you walk with a nonradicular nerve?
You must experience chronic nonradicular (not radiating from a nerve) pain. You must not be able to walk effectively (that is, you require a walker or two crutches to get around, or you need help getting to work or using public transportation).
What are the symptoms of spinal stenosis?
Examples of typical neurologic loss or deficit include symptoms of numbness, weakness, loss of coordination or tingling in the arm or leg .
Where is the nerve root located in stenosis?
This approach may be indicated when stenosis is due to a herniated disc or bone spur that is located in the area where the nerve root leaves the spinal canal, to the side of the spinal cord.The symptoms include unilateral or one-sided pain, numbness, tingling, or weakness.
Is cervical surgery more extensive than anterior surgery?
It can be combined with anterior (through the front of the neck) procedures. A posterior cervical surgery is more extensive than an anterior procedure (e.g. an ACDF), so the recovery time is longer.
Can a cervical laminectomy be done as a standalone procedure?
While this surgery is possible, there is no indication for a cervical laminectomy done as a standalone procedure and it can lead to recurrent stenosis, instability, and deformity. An ACDF or posterior laminectomy with a fusion are the usual approaches.
What is spinal stenosis?
Spinal stenosis is when the spaces within your neck begin to narrow and put pressure on nerves that run through the spine.
How far can you walk with spinal stenosis?
The RFC may indicate that you cannot stand more than an hour without having to take a break. You may not be able to walk more than 500 feet unassisted. Your condition may keep you from bending, reaching, or lifting. The RFC should present a clear picture of what you can and cannot do with spinal stenosis.
What medical imaging is needed for lumbar stenosis?
Medical imaging such as x-rays, CT scans, or MRIs of the spine should be submitted to substantiate a lumbar stenosis disability claim. Further, if an operation was necessary, a full surgical report should be submitted.
What are the symptoms of cervical stenosis?
Symptoms suffered by those with cervical stenosis include weakness of either the upper or lower limbs, sensory deficits, wasting of the muscles, reflex abnormalities, and radicular pain in the arms.
Can lumbar stenosis be aggravated by standing?
Symptoms of those who have lumbar stenosis may suffer from pain and weakness in the legs, loss of deep tendon reflexes, and the pain may by aggravated by walking or standing. The treatment plan depends on the area that is affected by the condition. However, either kind of spinal stenosis does have a surgical option.
Does the Blue Book cover lumbar spinal stenosis?
If you meet the listing requirements and criteria, your claim will be approved, and you will be awarded disability benefits. Lumbar spinal stenosis is one of few back conditions that are recognized by the SSA as an official impairment, which means that if you can provide supporting documentation to confirm the diagnosis and the criteria of the listing, you can be approved for disability benefits .
Can spinal stenosis be permanent?
If you have consulting with your doctor and it has been determined that your spinal stenosis is severe enough that it may be permanent, you may want to apply for disability benefits.
What does it mean when you have radicular pain?
This pain indicates that the narrowed portion of your spinal canal is compressing a spinal nerve.
What are the symptoms of spinal canal stenosis?
Severe symptoms. When spinal canal stenosis is severe, the patient may experience numbness, loss of feeling, paralysis or muscle atrophy. The compressed nerve may be permanently damaged or dead, in which case it cannot stimulate muscles.
What causes a narrowed spinal canal?
This narrowing can be caused by ruptured discs, disc protrusions, bone spurs or a variety of other degenerative conditions.
Can you have surgery for spinal stenosis?
Surgery for severe stenosis. Severe spinal stenosis may require surgery, as symptoms may be too severe at this point for conservative treatment methods. If you have spinal stenosis and your physician has recommended surgery, keep in mind that there are alternatives to highly invasive traditional open spine operations.
Can spinal stenosis worsen?
The symptoms of spinal stenosis can intensify as the condition worsens. It is important that you report them to your physician as accurately and honestly as possible so that he or she can make an accurate diagnosis.
What is SIJ injection?
SIJ Injections: These are therapeutic injections where cortisone goes directly into the joint through the needle.
What is an epidural steroid injection?
Epidural steroid injections are minimally invasive and long-lasting pain relief treatments. During the procedure, the practitioner injects a corticosteroid and an anesthetic numbing agent into the spine. Some requirements must be met for the coverage to begin.
How long does radiofrequency ablation last?
Radiofrequency ablation receives coverage from Medicare as long as it’s medically necessary . But, it’s a long-lasting treatment that can provide relief from pain for over a year in some cases.
Why are injections less useful?
For example, the reason for pain and details of failing to get relief from other treatments. If the pain isn’t sciatica or radicular pain, the injections are less useful.
What is radiofrequency ablation?
It’s a minimally invasive procedure using heat to stop nerve fibers from carrying pain signals to the brain. The non-surgical procedure results in immediate, long-lasting pain relief. When a doctor deems RFA medically necessary, it gets coverage.
What is lumbar medial branch block?
Lumbar medial branch blocks refer to a diagnostic procedure where injection of an anesthetic “tests” the joint’s nerve endings. This is done to verify the pain relief response and receives coverage when medically necessary. When the patient feels relief, they’re a candidate for radiofrequency ablation.
What is supplemental insurance?
Supplement coverage is crucial for those with lower back pain management needs. When undergoing pain management treatments, supplemental insurance protects you financially. There are many different types of injections for treatment available to those with either chronic or acute conditions. We’ll acquaint you with some of ...
What is spinal stenosis?
By Bethany K. Laurence, Attorney. Spinal stenosis is a condition that causes a narrowing of the spinal canal and compression of the spinal cord and nerves. Stenosis is usually the result of the aging process, but a bulging or ruptured disc can also cause it. Spinal stenosis usually affects individuals above 50 years of age or older, ...
What are the symptoms of lumbar stenosis?
Symptoms of lumbar stenosis include pain in the lower back, sciatica (pain that extends down the leg), numbness or tingling in the legs or feet, weakness in the thighs or calves, and loss of deep tendon reflexes (DTR). Walking and standing for long periods can aggravate pain caused by lumbar stenosis;
What is the name of the condition where the foramina gets smaller?
Foraminal stenosis is a specific type of spinal stenosis where the foramina, or openings on the sides of the vertebrae, get smaller, causing the nerves passing through to get pinched. Stenosis or encroachment of a foramen can be caused by deterioration of the spine, enlargement of the facet joints, or the growth of bone spurs, ...
Where does spinal stenosis occur?
Spinal stenosis can occur in the cervical (neck) and lumbar (lower back) areas of the spine. Severe cases of lumbar stenosis can progress to affecting the cauda equina nerves (a bundle of nerve roots that descends from the end of the spinal cord). S tenosis can compress the cauda equina, causing muscle weakness and pain or cramping extending ...
What should be included in medical records?
Your medical records should also include the medications you are taking, any negative side effects, and the treatments you have had, such as physical therapy, spinal decompression, or steroid injections . You should also have the results of an MRI or CT scan supporting a diagnosis of stenosis.
Can spinal stenosis be surgically treated?
Treatment for spinal stenosis, either lumbar or cervical, depends upon the area affected; there are, however, surgical options for both types of spinal stenosis.
Can you get disability for lumbar stenosis?
Social Security does have an official listing for lumbar spinal stenosis in its listing of impairments. If you meet the requirements in the stenosis listing, you can automatically qualify for disability benefits. Beware, this listing is complicated; you'll likely need your doctor's help to read through it and determine whether you might meet the requirements of the listing.