Actually, about 1/3 of SSDI claimants are approved at the first stage. Not every type of disability has a Listing, and some Listings are rarely approved before an ALJ hearing. You must have had enough medical evidence to prove you meet a Listing, (which can be complicated and very particular).

Lit,
Unfortunately, I am not eligible for SSDI. The lawyer was able to get a continuance for me based on differing medical opinion. He used my doctor's report from the past which said I was "disabled" and the lawyer argued that CRPS is a lifetime, ongoing condition and despite being denied doctor requested aqua PT I have tried on my own to rehab myself, but found the cooler water in the gym pool aggravated my CRPS.

I almost laughed out loud when the WC's doctor recommended that I could work at a job, which allowed me not to do any prolonged sitting, or standing, walking around or lifting. What job is that?