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Member
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Join Date: Jan 2015
Location: IL
Posts: 279
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Member
Join Date: Jan 2015
Location: IL
Posts: 279
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Quote:
Originally Posted by LIT LOVE
Having a CRPS I or II diagnosis will not make any difference to an ALJ compared to an RSD diagnosis.
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Well it's an added diagnosis since my first application. I applied (1st time) in late Oct. 2014 & received my denial Jan. 2015. Pretty much have MDI in my peroneal nerve palsy diagnosis, just not enough evidence of functional limitations
Quote:
Originally Posted by LIT LOVE
I think one of the toughest issues with a RSD/CRPS diagnosis with regards to applying for SSDI is that there is often a significant amount of optimism in the doctors notes, especially in the first few years. While it is true that technically you should qualify if you're unable to work for at least a year, and SS could set your CDR at a year, it's probably more likely that it'll take a few years for approval. Of course the standard drops a bit when you turn 50, so you should definitely research the Grid Rules and determine if it would make sense to either amend your Alleged Onset Date (some ALJs will allow you to use the age 50 grid six months prior to your bday) or even start a second application.
I'm not sure if you've undergone a Functional Capacity Evaluation, but you really need as much non-subjective evidence as possible. While the ALJ does determine RFC, it sure helps to have a FCE to back up why you can't perform even SGA.
The fact that you're starting with a new doctor could also really impact how long it'll take you to amass an overwhelming amount of evidence for approval. And of course, it would be even better if your medical team could help to return your function, so that you could return to work. (You could still pursue a closed period award going back to your original Alleged Onset Date.)
Of course, I could be wrong about the likelihood of a relatively fast approval, but it's best to try and prepare for the long haul when dealing with any SSDI application, IMO.
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My new doctor made it a point to say "Don't expect miracles. I can't promise functional return." One of the many reasons I stated I was there for is to have a physical form completed for nursing school. She wouldn't complete it as she is thinking I am too limited to perform the necessary tasks. However, she also did not give me a pain management referral because she is thinking the gabapentin/amitriptyline combo will be enough. Time will tell with that, but I seriously doubt it, unless the cause of my knee pain is due to another injury, in which case would be due to the peroneal nerve damage.
I did not have a FCE, nor did I even get sent a Functional Report to fill out. I feel I will have some problems on the reconsideration level due to the medical records being a bit shy on the function being addressed. However, my PT records were not obtained for my initial application either. While I can see an adjusted AOD, my AOD on initial app was 10/13/2013 relating to my knee fracture. The peroneal nerve damage would directly correlate with RSD diagnosis and the nerve damage was diagnosed 4/2014. Do you think they would want to change it to 2/2015 to reflect the RSD diagnosis? Ugh. I hate it when people that take advantage of these programs/pain medications totally ruin it for those of us who need it!!!
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